Match Reports & Results

 

Sunday 7th June 2009

Greenwich Men's Tournament (Veterans and U21s) - Coldharbour Leisure Centre
22 BBHC/Greenwich/Bexley U21 players turned up nice and early on Sunday morning before finding out that their first game was at 12pm!

The first game was between the 2 BBHC teams, with the BBHC finishing 2-0, with a weak shot going through James Isteed’s legs (as usual) and the second being a mid height penalty stroke going to the left side of the goal deflecting of James’ stick (unlucky I must say).

Then the BBHC 2’s (or RSC Woolwich as named on the morning) were up against Ramgharia forest gate from east London. With a lot of youngsters out and Andrew Mendl, Dave Humber and Gareth Jones being the backbone of the squad, BBHC 2’s kept the Ramgharia attack at bay until just before the final whistle, when a very peculiar drag flick was saved by a diving James Isteed, who could only manage to parry it to an opposition striker who calmly put it away. Final score was 1-0 but everyone thought this was not a true reflection of the game and that a draw would have been more appropriate.

After an hour’s break, the BBHC 1’s stepped out to face the Ramgharia side, who had to go out there and prove that they were stronger than everyone thought. BBHC were pinned back from the push back and faced numerous attacks but with brilliant and brave keeping from Sunny Neta, kept the score 0-0. With a few attacks going BBHC’s way, Ramgharia used their counter attack very effectively and managed to score a 3 on 2 attack after a very god initial save from Sunny. The second goal was similar, Sunny not having the support from the back tracking defence and could only parry the ball to an opposition striker.

Overall, a very good performance from both BBHC squads and a big shout out to Ravi Chana for coming down and helping me sort out the team, positions etc. Hope everyone enjoyed the day, we are planning to go bigger and better next year and hopefully everyone will be available for that.

Ramgharia won the tournament with BBHC 1’s as runners up. The man of the tournament was given to a Ramgharia player as he scored most goals but from a general over view from the spectators the award should have gone to both keepers, Sunny and James, for pulling off incredible saves.

Once again, thanks to everyone who participated and helped out, hope to see all of you at the BBHC training sessions.

Check out the photos here >>

[Sukh Chaggar]

 

 

 

 

Saturday 28th March 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 4 - 2 Marden Russets 1st XI (A)
(Ashenden [PC], Lucas [FG])
2nd XI 2 - 5 Lewes 3rd XI (H)
(Sains 2 [2FG])
3rd XI 1 - 2 Maidstone 3rd XI (A)
(Corker [PC])
4th XI 2 - 6 Ashford 4th XI (H)
(S Chana [PC], Gibbard [PC])
5th XI No Fixture
6th XI No Fixture
Veterans 1 - 6 NPL Desperados (H)

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 1 - 2 Basildon 1st XI (H)
2nd XI No Fixture
3rd XI No Fixture

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 4 - 2 Marden Russets 1st XI (A)
BBHC Men's 1st XI arrived at Marden Russets knowing that if results didn't go their way today , that their title hopes would be dashed. The game against MR in the first half of the season was a fractious affair resulting in a 6-3 victory after a closely fought and competetive game.

The match started off well for BBHC, dominating the possession and pressing MR into their own half. It was not long before the possesion resulted in a penalty corner. This was converted in style by Sam Ashenden who sent the ball flying into the roof of the net, as the opposition keeper dived inexplicably out of the way. BBHC continued to dominate with MR struggling to string their passes together and clear their lines. The lead was soon doubled after an initial reverse shot was saved from Andres Labourt to be followed up from close range by Dan Lucas.

As the weather changed from an overcast sky to sheets of hail, so did so did the pattern of play. MR started to breakdown the BBHC attacks, which had provided some good goal scoring oppotunities and create several chances of their own. Some good one touch passing from the MR forwards provided a test for the BBHC defence. One such pass resulted in a one-on-one situation with keeper Lee Cook, who was quick off his line and managed to take the ball before taking the player. As the half progressed, MR deservedly won several short corners but some fantastic saves again by Lee Cook retained the two goal lead.

As the half came to a close though, BBHC took the initiative again. Working the ball down the right flank and and along the byline the resultant cross was met by Kevin King who deflected the ball through his legs into the far corner of the goal. The half came to a close with BBHC 3-0 up and confident they could continue to dominate.

The second half started with BBHC having the majority of possession but struggling to create the quality and quantity of chances as the first half. The tone of the game began to change as MR made a few robust challenges, riling BBHC. This interrupted BBHCs flow and allowed MR to get back into the game. They converted though a short corner slipped to the right hand post and touched home from close range. BBHC continued to play good hockey but the tone of the game was not conducive to this. BBHC found themselves a man down after Andrew Horsman was yellow carded for deliberately breaking down play.

For a five minute period BBHC were under constant pressure but were able to keep the possession and prevent MR from grabbing a goal.

Tempers on both sides were running high now on but it was MR who blew their top first, the right back being removed for being a little too vocal. As Horsman returned to the pitch (and the hail started again!), BBHC were caught out on the break. A cross field ball to the MR right midfield, found him in too much space and as he worked his way into the D managed convert from an acute angle after drawing Lee Cook out of his goal.

With the BBHC lead reduced to a single goal now, MR surged forward in search of the next goal. Some last ditch defending though prevented MR equalising. BBHC were limited to the occasional counter attack. One of these attacks led to a short corner. The initial corner broke down, however, the rebound fell to captain Kevin King who finished in emphatic style by blasting the ball home into the roof of the net.

4-2 up and the game now looked safe for the visitors but that did not stop both teams making some dubiously timed tackles. Before the final whistle went, an off the ball incident went unnoticed by the umpires, however, the retaliation from Jamie Perfit did not, resulting in a yellow card. This did not prevent BBHC from holding out to seal a well deserved three points.

A patchy performance from BBHC, with some sublime hockey being played at times and a crucial three point being secured. The mood was further buoyed by the news that title rivals Worthing had lost 3-1 to Old Bordenians meaning that for the first time in several weeks, BBHC's destiny was in their own hands. Next week is a HUGE game away to current league leaders Eastbourne. Winner takes all.

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI 1 - 2 Maidstone 3rd XI (A)
A season of poor player availability, high player turnover and some poor results has left BBHC's Men's 3rd XI on the brink of relegation for the 2nd season in a row. The faced former pace-setters, Maidstone in their penultimate league game at Armstrong Road. With Mark Ashby and Ian Cole continuing their returns after long lay-offs and Club Captain Paul Harvey stepping in for the equally-diminuitive Dave King, the B's hoped to steal 3 points they needed to stave off the drop.

However, they faced a typically robust Maidstone side, none of whome weighed less thn 11 stone nor aged below 23. This contrasted with the bigger spread of ages and sizes of BBHC!. The pitch was slick with the Spring showers (and hail) and the hosts kept the B's pinned back for the first 15 minutes. However, some sout defending by youngsters Karan Chana and Sumeet Dhinsa, and old heads Adrian Prong, Andrei Mendis and GK Jim Jackson repelled them. In fact, Jackson was on perhaps his best form for 3 years, with some good movement and crucial saves.

BBHC's own forward-play in this half began with counterattacks but continued with more sustained periods of possession but chances could not be converted. Several short corners were won but no decisive shot wre made, save fr one Asby strike which entered the goal above backboard-level. The scores remained 0-0 at half-time.

The 2nd half was more one-sided, as BBHC re-jigged their line-up and the sustained Maidstone pressure told. The hosts finally broke the deadlock with a rebound pulled home on the back-stick by the tall, Maidstone forward, in front of the home umpire.

Thankfully, Dave Corker evened the scores shortly afterwards, tapping home a short corner variation at the far post.

Maidstone continued to have the better of the play, with BBHC unable to retain the ball in attack. The hosts should have been reduced to 10 men during one rare foray forward as the Maidstone right back deliberately stopped a through pass with his right foot. However, he went unpunished. And the hosts were able to get their winner soon after. An acute shot from the inside left channel saw the ball expertly struck millimetres wide of Jackson left foot but striking the left post and rebounding inside the goal. the ball. Some claimed this was another back-stick shot, since the strike was flat and seemed to be with the trailing edge of the forward's stick.

2-1 was how it ended. With Sevenoaks 4As winning against Gore Court, BBHC dropped to 11th. Oaks still have Cliftonville and Old Bordenians to play in rearranged fixtures before a potential league fixture against BBHC, too. BBHC's only hope is that restructuring may save them from relegation.

[Andrei Mendis]

 

3rd XI 2 - 6 Marden Russets 1st XI (A)
Difficult game this week with 12 players but no umpire so myself and Martin Hickman shared the honour. We managed to a goal behind early on and never really got going after that. We were soon 3-0 down, but managed to pull one back before the break through John Gibbard. The next goal would always prove crucial and so it proved, but unfortunately it didn’t go to us. We let in two more and again got a consolation towards the end, this time through Sammy Chana. One game to go this season, before a very well deserved rest. Apologies for the brief match report this week.

MoM: the Ashford team

DoD: Rob ‘The Running Man’ Tyler – no kit, using his head to tackle, stopping a shot with his knee (he was actually trying to get out of the way!).

[James Smith]

 

Saturday 21st March 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 8 - 1 Herne Bay 1st XI (H)
(Labourt 2 [FG, PC], Lucas 3 [3FG], Perfitt 2 [2FG], Pyke [PC])
2nd XI 2 - 4 Maidstone 2nd XI (A)
3rd XI 7 - 1 Tunbridge Wells 3rd XI (H)
(Ashby 3 [2FG, 1PC], P Harvey 4 [2FG, 2PC])
4th XI 6 - 2 Gillingham Anchorians 3rd XI (A)
(Corker 4 [4FG], Mendis [FG], M Pellat [PS})
5th XI 4 - 3 Gillingham Anchorians 4th XI (H)
(Allen [PC], T Chana 2 [2FG], Mark A [FG])
6th XI 2 - 4 Wellcome Unicorns (A)
(T Kay [FG},P Williams [FG])
Veterans vs NPL Bulldogs (A) - cancelled

Veterans 2 - 2 Bromley & Beckenham (H) - Kent Veterans Cup Quarter Final (Sunday 22nd March) BBHC lose 4-2 on flicks

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 2 - 1 Sevenoaks 3rd XI (A)

 

Colts' Results

U13 Boys: Kent Boys Mini Hockey (U13) Championships at Sevenoaks: 3-0, 0-3, 0-2, 0-13 , 0-5
U18 Boys 1 - 7 Bromley & Beckenham (H)
(G Jones [FG])

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 8 - 1 Herne Bay 1st XI (H)
With the season drawing to a close, for BBHC to stand any chance of stealing promotion and escaping the Kent Sussex leagues before the re-structuring occurs, a win was vital. Herne Bay were welcomed to Erith School on a sunny afternoon. Despite Herne Bay having little to play for, BBHC were not expecting an easy game by any means.

BBHC started off brightly, combining some swift passing round the back with quick penetrating attacks from the frontline. It was not long before the home side grabbed the lead after some good solo work from Andres Labourt saw a shot on his reverse from the top of the D, The keeper looked like he would make a comfortable save until Dan Lucas got a touch in mid air to wrong foot the keeper and grab the lead. BBHC made things difficult for themselves after being caught out by an aerial from the H.B defence. As the defence gravitated to the ball in D the H.B attacker was left unmarked on the back post for a simple tap in. Heads did not drop though and BBHC continued to create chances, constantly putting the H.B backline under pressure. The lead was deservedly re-gained after BBHC worked the ball round the H.B defence and down the back line, the cut back was converted by Jamie Perfit. In a carbon copy of the previous goal Dan Lucas doubled his tally from close range after Jamie Perfit turned provider.BBHC were cruising now, the backline were quick to sweep up any H.B pressure and the forward line were creating good chances. Before the halftime whistle, there was time for one more. A short corner powerfully struck home by David Pyke.

BBHC came out from half time knowing that goal difference could be crucial in deciding the league title and determined to further improve their position. H.B started the half looking solid though and did well to keep the BBHC forwards at bay. However, the new found confidence from H.B did not extend to their front line, whom failed to test Lee Cook in goal. BBHC continued to plug away at the H.B defence and finally their persistance paid dividends with a reverse strike from Andres Labourt beating the keeper. Another goal quickly followed from BBHC, with a scramble in the H.B D falling to the feet of Dan Lucas who completed his hat-trick.

H.B continued to make sporadic forays into the BBHC half but with little to show for their hard work. The midfield and forwards of BBHC continued in their quest for goals. The next came for Andres Labourt, a strike from a short corner leaving the opposition keeper flat footed. It was five minutes from the final whistle before H.B won their first short corner. BBHC were cautious of the H.B threat but need not have been with the ball not being stopped by the H.B attack. A swift pass down the pitch saw Dave Humber receive the ball and with a quick unselfish pass, saw he remove the last defender and keeper from the equation leaving a simple tap in from Jamie Perfit. The final five minutes saw BBHC sit back and invite H.B to test the defence but no chances fell to them and the game finished 8-1.

A sublime performance and a throughly well deserved three points, However, with the end of the season fast approaching, BBHC find their destiny out of their hand with Worthing continuing to also secure the required results.

[Alex Webster]

 

4th XI 6 - 2 Gillingham Anchorians 3rd XI (A)
A few firsts this week: our first away win and our first back-to-back wins of the season. Not only did these two factors put a smile on our faces, but we are now safe from relegation from the league so well done one and all.

I have to say that the game is a bit of a blur but details, as usual, are a little hazy to say the least. Ancs started brightly but unlike previous matches this season, our opponents failed to take advantage. We slowly got ourselves back in the game with Dave Corker and Mark Pellat working particularly effectively down the right hand side.

It was us that managed to take the lead midway through the first half with young Patrice Kay unlucky not to have scored a debut goal before Dave finished it off. Fortuitously we extended our lead from a stroke which was despatch by Mark Pellat with aplomb.

So 2-0 at half time but in fairness to our opposition the game was far more even than the scoreline suggested. The next goal would be crucial and it came from an unlikely source, Andrei Mendis who 'rounded' the keeper and slotted home on the reverse. Well I've seen it all now or at least I thought I had but having just shown the forwards how to score AndreI limped, hobbled and crawled off the pitch. The moment had clearly gone to his head [My hamstring, actually. Andrei]

Soon after our reshuffle, our opponents pulled one back through a short corner but this seem to switch us back into gear as, following a break down at a short corner, Phillip Williams and Dave Corker combined' for the latter to score his second of the game from less than a yard. Dave completed his hat-trick with an undercut from the top of the 'd' having beaten two defenders in the build up.

If you are to found with either Dave or Andrei this week, please do ask them about their goals this week I'm sure they'll oblige you. Apparently Dave added a fourth , however by this time my memory bank was clearly full- must remember to buy a bigger hard drive next time. There was still time for our opponents to score with the last touch of the game.

So safety is assured and there is still time to enjoy the rest of the season without any nerves - well done boys!

MoM: Dave Corker - four goals - yet I still have no idea where he was playing, oh well.
DoD: Lots of candidates this week - Andrei for limping off after his goal, Mark Pellat for shouting mine at an aerial only to miss it and it hitting him in the unmentionables, James Isteed of course! And our opponent who asked where we'd got our umpire from only for him to be told that they provided both! And the winner is... Mark Pellat or Andrei! Who knows! Joint winners this week!

[James Smith]

 

5th XI 4 - 3 Gillingham Anchorians 4th XI (H)
After last week's loss, the morale in the 5's was some what subdued as we hosted the top of the league and free scoring Gillingham Ancorians. A changed side with three debutants made for an interesting line up! The match started well for BB, passing the ball around and making some chances early on, but it was the away team who took the lead with an extremely soft goal, the ball squeezing inside the post during a scramble on the line. BB didn't let this change the way they played, a ball passed into the D found Mark A who calmly dispatched it passed the static keeper.

The game was going BB's way as the centre half duo who had caused problems in our previous match were being neutralised by some tight but fair marking. With confidence growing, the passing game took hold, which finished with two well taken goals by Tarin Chana. With five minutes to go to the break, BB lost concentration allowing the visitors to draw level with some blinding stick work by their centre halves.

A reassuring team talk at half time, pulled the team back into focus and gave the team new verve. BB given a penalty corner after some agricultural defending by the visitors, the ball swiftly pulled out to Humber who rounded the advancing defender and slipped it to Peter Allen who deflected it over the advancing keeper. At this point the good-mannered and humoured game descended into a fracas with Anc's loosing their cool level headedness, which acuminated in one of the before mentioned halves seeing red after a torrent of abuse levelled at the umpire who had already requested that the player curtailed his somewhat colourful language. BB were put on the back foot by a series of penalty corners which the BB defence and keeper stood firm and didn't allow the away side to draw level. Thanks to Adrian Prong for umpiring.

Final score BBHC 4 Gillingham Anc's 3.

This season has been a hard but enjoyable one, (sometimes frustrating) the 5's have played 18 league games, won 6, drawn 3 and lost 9. Many of the losses have been close and could be put down to an ever changing team. The youngsters within the team have developed immeasurably and have grown in confidence which can only be good for the club, the older players amongst us have ached but never complained for which I am ever grateful, I know this is the last season for some of the adults, I wish to thank them for their commitment to me and the team. Thanks to all of the players who have turned out for the 5's over the past twenty games. Martin, Simon, Peter, Saleem, Mark, Dave, Dave, Phillip, Blake, Rohan, Sammy, Udi, Jamie, Lee, Dave, Steve, Adrian, Martin, Alex, Jonathan, Martin, James, Tom, Tarin, John, Steve, John, Joseph, Mark, Frank, Alfie, Jagi, Roy, David, Rob, Patrice, Sunny, Phillip, Matt, Jim, Gareth, Mike, Ian, James, Adrian, David, Mark, David and Nick. We were lucky to have such a large squad to choose from, forty nine players in twenty matches. Special mention to the club members who have umpired for us this year, your help in sometimes difficult situations is very much appreciated.

[Andy Humber]

 

Veterans 2 - 2 Bromley & Beckenham (H) - Kent Veterans Cup Quarter Final (Sunday 22nd Mach) BBHC lose 4-2 on flicks
BBHC hosted a fancied Bromley and Beckenham in the quarter finals of the Kent Veterans Cup.

Any nerves that existed for BBHC, where soon dispelled as they started of positively moving the ball around well. It was five minutes into the game when BBHC took the lead, a short corner strike from Andy Humber to the bottom right hand corner. The game continued with both teams playing some good expansive hockey, creating some good opportunities at both ends. BBHC extended their lead through another short corner. A routine straight out of the 1st XI play book was initially saved but followed up well by the youthful Peter Stanley. As the half drew to a close, the visitors started to create some good opportunities of their own. After a deliberate offense in the BBHC D, a penalty stroke was awarded to the visitors but was well saved by keeper Martin Mason. BromBecks continued to apply pressure though and managed to grab a goal back through a short corner of their own, a flick from close range leaving Martin Mason in goal with no chance.

The second half started with both teams certain that a win was possible. Opportunities came and went for both teams with no further additions to the score. The game became rather fractious from both sides with some robust tackles from either side. This resulted in several stoppages by the umpires and a yellow card for the visitors. Controversy then ensued when another yellow card was awarded to the visitors after a seemingly innocuous incident on the BBHC left. The player awarded the card, however, stayed on the pitch unnoticed by the umpire and watching crowd. The awarding of cards continued when a yellow was awarded to BBHC player Kevin Wrake, after stopping a BromBeck attack by intercepting an aerial above shoulder height. Minutes before the final whistle, BromBecks (now playing with an additional player) evened the score through another short corner, tapped home after an initial save. The game finished with a BBHC short corner, which led to the umpires noticing the extra man but it did not prove fruitful.

Two fifteen minute periods of extra time followed with no goals, leaving penalty strokes the only way to seperate the two teams.

Peter Stanley converted the first for BBHC but was matched by the visitors. Ravi Chana then had a flick well saved before BromBecks took the lead. Andy Humber then had his saved before Brom Becks converted to take a 3-1 lead. Nick Tuckey converted for BBHC before Martin Mason saved the next flick. 3-2 and BBHC were still in it just. It fell to Paul Harvey to keep BBHC in the game but again was well saved by the Brom Becks keeper.

A good performance from the vets, who were unlucky to go out to the strong BromBecks side.

[Alex Webster]

 

Colts' Reports

U13 Boys: Kent Boys Mini Hockey (U13) Championships at Sevenoaks
BBHC's U13 Boys squad travelled to Sevenoaks for the Kent round of the National Mini Hockey Championships. There were 24 teams entered and we were drawn in a strong group that included Canterbury 1 and Sevenoaks 1. In the first scheduled game we got a bye as Ashford failed to appear. Then followed 2 hard fought games against Tunbridge Wells 2 and Herne Bay 2 which we lost despite some valiant defending and heroic's from Andrew in goal, 0-3 and 0-2. Heads dropped when we faced the top 2 teams and we lost quite heavily, 0-13 and 0-5. The boys were a bit disappointed at the end but it was a good effort considering we had the smallest and youngest team in the group if not the tournament. Thank you to all the parents for there support and encouragement.

[Steve Hawes]

 

Saturday 14th March 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 3 - 1 Old Williamsonians 1st XI (A)
(Horsman [FG], K King [PC], Pyke [PS])
2nd XI 5 - 3 Burnt Ash 2nd XI (H)
(P Harvey [FG], Pickersgill [FG], Sains [FG], Wheeler [FG], Wrake [FG])
3rd XI 0 - 4 Canterbury Millers (A)
4th XI 5 - 1 Bromley & Beckenham 6th XI (H)
(Agyei [FG], T Chana [FG], Hickman 2 [2PC], Saunders [FG])
5th XI 0 - 5 Bromley & Beckenham 7th XI (A)
6th XI 6 - 1 Holcombe 6A (H)
(G Chaggar [PC], R Chaggar(FG], S Porter [FG], Adrian Webster [PC], Tyler [FG], P Williams [FG])
Vets 2 - 2 Wimbledon (H)

2nd XI 2 - 3 Eastcote 2nd XI - EH Men's 2nd XI Trophy Semi-Final (Sunday 15th March)
(L Humber 2 [2PC])

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 3 - 3 Blackheath 1st XI (A)
2nd XI 1 - 4 Ashford 1st XI (A)
3rd XI 2 - 12 Gore Court 2nd XI (A)

 

Colts' Results

U12 Girls Triangular Friendly: BBHC vs Canterbury vs Herne Bay (H)
U14 Boys 2 - 2 Tunbridge Wells (A)
(Rohan Chana [FG], P Williams [FG])
U16 Girls 5 - 0 Maidstone (A)
(Crowley 2 [2FG], Darby [FG],E Kember-Hollands 2 [2PC])

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 3 - 1 Old Williamsonians 1st XI (A)
BBHC visited mid-table Old Williamsonains in a match where only a win would do and that would hopefully be less-packed with incident than the home game.

The game nearly started off in the best possible fashion when Jamie Perfit found himself through on goal after some quick passing down the right hand side, however, his shot failed to test the keeper. Despite this early miss, BBHC were not put off and were soon awarded a penalty stroke after the O.W centre was deemed to have made a delibrate tackle on his reverse at the D. David Pyke was back to his best on flick duties, sending the ball into the top corner. The game continued with neither side playing particularly attractive hockey, the ball being given away cheaply by both sides. The lead was further extended after a good run by Pete Stanley down the right hand side was converted by Andrew Horsman. The ball continued to be turned over frequently and the challenges were becoming more robust, resulting in a yellow card for the O.W centre back.

BBHC came out for the second half looking to put the game out of O.W reach. Andres Labourt was sent off for a stick tackle but despite some god O.W pressure they were unable to create any clear cut chances. Both teams created several good chances but the next goal went to BBHC with Kev King deflecting the ball home. The game became stretched as the match entered teh last 10 minutes. O.Ws made good use of some well executed aerials. One such aerial was picked up on the right and after some good solo play was converted past Lee Cook in goal.

Far from BBHC's best but the three points see them keep pace with the top 3.

[Alex Webster]

 

2nd XI 2 - 3 Eastcote 2nd XI - EH Men's 2nd XI Trophy Semi-Final (Sunday 15th March)
BBHC welcomed higher league opposition Eastcote 2nd XI to Hursmere in the semi final of the national knockout competition - the Men's 2nd XI Trophy.

Eastcote started off slowly and BBHC had much of the early possesion but failed to penetrate the Eastcote D and test the keeper. The visitors came close at the other end before BBHC took the lead through a short corner strike from Lee Humber. This fired Eastcote into action and after some good attacking play down the BBHC' left they had equalled the score, barely two minutes after BBHC had snatched the lead. Both teams continued to play good attacking expansive hockey but it was BBHC who grabbed the next goal, again from a short corner, again from left back Lee Humber. Despite the best effort's of the BBHC defence, they were unable to prevent Eastcote from equalising before half time.

The second half saw Eastcote come out strongly, creating several good chances but BBHC managed to hold on and keep the scores level. the home side managed to create several good chances of their own, the best falling to David Humber but were unable to re-take the lead. Eastcote finally took the lead with 10 minutes remaining after a short corner had hit the post and was quickly followed up. This led to a frantic last ten minutes but BBHC were unable to find an equaliser.

A fantastic game and good performance but unfortunately it was not enough to see BBHC through to the national final.

[Alex Webster]

 

4th XI 5 - 1 Bromley & Beckenham 6th XI (H)
WE WON, WE WON!!!! No, it's actually true for the first time since the 6th December we won. We did make it a little difficult for ourselves in the first half, but over all it was a convincing win. We started brightly with some good passing through the midfield and forwards and we were rewarded with a short corner which in our usual style was returned to the pusher, on this occasion Martin Hickman, which was duly converted.

Following this success we decided on the same move again with the same outcome and scorer, although this time it went in via a defending foot on the line. Through a certain amount of arrogance we naturally felt the need to try the same move for a third time, but oddly they saw it coming and defend against it well this time, a little more physical but effectively. As the half went on BromBecks came more into the game moving the ball well and at the same time our own game became more narrow. They managed to get a goal back through a deflected short corner and then on the stroke of half-time they equalised from a particularly good move down their right.

We started the second half well and looked confident passing the ball around a goal from Martin Agyei helped to settle the nerves (sorry but can't remember what happened! I'm sure if you bump into Martin he'll let you know!). from this point we dominated possession of the ball with good passing and movement with both Tarin Chana and Jamie Saunders playing particularly well once again, both were rewarded with rather strange goals. Jamie beat two players and drove into the 'D' wound up for one almighty hit. He mis-hit the shot and, with Martin Agyei, after his second of the game, trying to deflect past the keeper and missing, the ball rolled under the keeper and into the back of the net. Now there's one for the memory bank Jamie!

Tarin was equally memorable with excellent build-up seeing a one-two at the top of the 'D' lead to Tarin attempting a pass to Jamie at the far post (we think this is what he was doing anyway) only to see the 'pass' deflect off a defending foot and into the backboards. There was still time for our opponents to score again. All in all it was a good performance with too many good performances to mention. So well done guys it was a long time coming but well worth the wait!

MoM: Everyone! (cop out, I know)
DoD: James Isteed (and he didn't even play!)

[James Smith]

 

5th XI 0 - 5 Bromley & Beckenham 7th XI (A)
After the euphoria of last week's win, another changed side went away to BromBecks, another side who are struggling at the wrong end of the table. On first sight it was realised the home team had been supported by players, 'possibly' from higher sides! BB knew they were in for a challenging match.

Both teams started well, the ball being moved around by both teams, it was the home side who took the lead with a soft goal, this didn't deter BB, with continued attacks ending fruitless. At half time BB lost Simon Brown through injury, this put pressure on the already tired BB defence and half line, the first ten minutes continued much the same as the first half, but after that the fatigue started to show, the passing game fell apart and the mistakes were punished by the home side.

The tired looking BB continued to challenge the home team until the final whistle, what as captain, is all that can be asked. Next week's game is at home to the league leaders and is a must win game for the 5's.

Thanks goes to all the players who helped us out this week and the players who have kept the faith under increasing pressure of this season. Thanks to Dave Corker for umpiring. Final score BromBecks 5 BBHC 0.

[Alex Webster]

 

Colts' Reports

U12 Girls Triangular Friendly: BBHC vs Canterbury vs Herne Bay (H)
BBHC under 12s welcomed Here Bay and Canterbury to Erith school for a triangular series of friendly fixtures.

The first fixture went well for BBHC, securing a 0-0 draw against Canterbury after some resolute defending. They then took the lead against Herne Bay in their next fixturebefore conceeding two before the final whistle. In a repeat of the fixtures BBHC did not fair so well, losing both narrowly 2-0 and 1-0.

A fantastic day was had by all and some good hockey was played by all. Thankyou very much to Canterbury and Herne Bay for making the trip up and to Jamie Saunders, Blake Barthlomew and Leah Kember-Hollands for helping out on the day.

[Alex Webster]

 

U14 Boys 2 - 2 Tunbridge Wells (A)
The U14 boys team benefitted from the cancellation of the U12 game. It meant that we could put out a relatively strong squad with a couple of substitutes.

For a change we had great weather for a Sunday game. The team got to Tonbridge School in time to get a short warm up and for Patrice to pad up to go in goal (some mention was made about a certain protective guard and whether he would need it – this comment came from his sister).

We tried a slightly different formation to usual with Harpal playing sweeper, Rohan playing the central midfield role and Tarin playing up front. The game started with BBHC moving the ball round well, and this led to a couple of early chances which BBHC failed to take. Then, against the run of play, T Wells managed to get a goal from open play (1-0). This was in part due to a disconnect between the BBHC backs and midfield, T Wells took full advantage of this with one of their players managing a strong run down the middle of the pitch.

BBHC continued their strong play, but again with T Wells maintaining their strength in the middle they managed to score again (2-0).

The half time whistle gave an opportunity for a constructive talk on how BBHC wwas to get back into this game. Some positional changes were made with Tarin coming into mid field and Rohan playing up front. This created a link between the backs and forwards. It also allowed Phillip and Rohan to create and use the space on the left of the pitch. This led to the first BBHC goal, when Phillip received the ball and drove into the T Wells D, where he managed to get a hit away at goal. Although the ball was headed in Rohan made sure with tap in at the far post (2-1).

BBHC played to their strengths with Harpal playing some good passes to Phillip and good interplay between Phillip and Rohan. The same combination worked well for the second goal, when Rohan set up the ball for Phillip to sweep the ball into the T Wells goal (2-2).

T Wells did create good chances and threatened the BBHC goal, but great defending from Ben, Jozef and George, and good goal keeping from Patrice denied the T Wells forwards.

Other notable performances came from Lucien, who did some great defensive and offensive work in left midfield, and also from Charlie, who made some good runs in the opposition half.

The substitutes Andrew and Nakhil played their part, with Nathan putting in a great performance on left wing.

Man of the match goes to Phillip, who worked tirelessly down the left.
Thanks to Bal for help with coaching and to the parents for their support (especially Ted who remembered to bring the Colts shirts!).

A big thank you to Alex Scott, who did a sterling job in umpiring the game.

[Ravi Chana]

U16 Girls 5 - 0 Maidstone (A)
For the last game of the season the sun decided to come out for a BBHC U16 Girls game against Maidstone, which was a good omen.

The first half BBHC put full pressure on Maidstone defence, with two early converted short corners by Ellie Kember-Hollands, gave BBHC confidence to move the ball around and drive forward giving Sorcha Crowley the opportunity to convert two goals and Marny Darby to score 1 in open play.

The pitch and the weather had taken it out of BBHC, the second half started slower, however, BBHC continued with just as the first half had finished. Maidstone fought to the end but were unable to break down BBHC defence and the Maidstone goalkeeper keep the BBHC forwards out, with near misses from the newest members of the team in Rosie Jones and Caitlin Coleman.

Final score 5 - 0

[Alison Hollands]

 

 

Saturday 7th March 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 5 - 0 Tunbridge Wells 1st XI (H)
(Ravi Chana [FG], K King [PC], Labourt [PC], Lucas [FG], Pyke [PS])
2nd XI 1 - 3 Canterbury 4A (A)
3rd XI 1 - 2 Holcombe 4's (H)
(Tither [FG])
4th XI 3 - 6 Kings Alleyns 3rd XI (A)
(S Chaggar 2 [FG, PC])
5th XI 3 - 1 Sevenoaks 5th XI (H)
(Bartholomew [FG], Jayasuriya 2 [2FG])
6th XI 0 - 3 Folkestone Optimist 6th XI (A)
Veterans vs Masonians (A) - cancelled

Veterans 3 - 3 Cliftonville (A) (BBHC won APS) Kent Veterans Cup, 1st Round (Sunday 8th March)
(A Humber [PC], S Chana [FG], P Harvey [PS])

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 0 - 4 Brentwood 1st XI (H)
2nd XI 0 - 4 Meopham 1st XI (H)
3rd XI 4 - 0 Gravesend 3rd XI (A)

1st XI 0 - 1 Gore Court 1st XI (H) Rescheduled leaue game (Sunday 8th March)

 

Colts' Results

U14 Boys 1 - 8 Gore Court (A)
(N Scott [FG])
U16 Girls 1 - 2 Sutton Valence (A)
(Crowley [FG])

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 5 - 0 Tunbridge Wells 1st XI (H)
BBHC welcomed struggling Tunbridge Wells this week to Erith School, with win the required result to keep pace with those above.

Things started well for BBHC pressuring T.W from the start. A minute in saw a blistering run from Jamie Perfit down the right wing and along the by-line. A well placed ball across the goal was in the path of Dan Lucas who fired the ball into the roof of the net. Two minutes later the score was doubled after Andres Labourt was felled by the on rushing keeper for David Pyke to convert the flick, unlike the previous week. BBHC continued to play some good hockey, and won many short corners. A good routine saw the ball stopped on the line by a T.W foot. David Pyke stepped up again but the opposition's keeper mind games defeated Pyke and he sent the ball flying over the bar.

As the half progressed the standard of hockey dropped from BBHC, lacking that urgency that they had at the start. T.W's attacking was limited to several breaks into BBHC half but these were quickly snuffed out. BBHC continued to create chances and win many short corners but were struggling to convert.

The second half saw T.W come out brightly, playing some good hockey themselves. They made several attacks into the BBHC half winning a couple of short corners failed to convert. BBHC continued to have the better of the chances though and won yet more short corners but the defender on the line was winning the battle against the BBHC forwards clearing yet more off the line. The lead was finally further extended after Andres Labourt finally converted a strike from a short corner.
Reminiscent of the first half, a goal followed two minutes later with Ravi Chana tapping home from close range after some more good work from Jamie Perfit on the right. The scoring was complete when another BBHC short corner was converted by Kevin King.

A good result on paper but it could have been much better with only 2 in 16 short corners being converted. However, the three points was the important thing. Next week BBHC visit Old Williamsonians, in a game that will hopefully be more friendly than the last.

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI 1 - 2 Holcombe 4's (H)
This was a great performance in many ways and so close to a vital win. However, BBHC’s Men’s 3rd XI did not capitalise on their superior possession and were hit on the break twice.

Matters began with another lightweight warm-up session and the news that the talismanic Adrian Prong was unavailable. However, the ever-changing 3’s line-up was augmented with some guile as they welcomed up, for 1 week only, by Andy Tither and, from the South coast, Derren Westbrook.

A great 1st half ensued, with BBHC retaining the ball for significant periods and pinning the visitors in their half thanks to a high defensive line. Westbrook worked his magic in the centre of the park and drew players to him, freeing up Tither to attack the diminutive Holcombe left back with success. On one of his forays, Tither scored on the 15 minute mark to give BBHC a deserved lead.

The Holcombe midfield was hard-working, but their young forwards were playing very deep, which made for congestion in the visitors’ half. This allowed BBHC’s young full backs Karan Chana and Sumeet Dhinsa more space to receive the ball and were encouraged to attack more. This allowed BBHC to maintain pressure and easily retreat when needed since more visiting players were pushed back into their half.

A number of short corners were won but none were converted – a statistic that would cost us dear. Shots were not taken from the top of the D in open play, as BBHC preferred to drive deeper and score from closer range. Thus the score was only 1-0 at half time.

The team talk at half time called for more of the same and to keep it tight in defence. And all seemed to go well at first. However, Holcombe had shuffled their line-up. They strengthened their defence by moving their small left back went to right wing, and moved their influential centre midfielder forward a touch. Combined with BBHC’s flat, high defence, this proved sufficient to change the game.

BBHC maintained possession, though not as effectively as in the first half. Tither started playing more centrally and, on one occasion, took on one too many Holcombe player. The ball was lost, the central defenders failed to win the ball back and it was played right and behind the home defence to the mini right winger. The counterattack continued into the D, with the BBHC defence slow to get back. A tame shot to the far post snuck in to level the scores.

Worse was to come. A long clearance from Holcombe caught the BBHC defence too high up the field. With 2 attackers bearing down on his D, BB goalkeeper Jim Jackson had to time his run to kick the ball to safety. With only 1 defender in range, he only succeeded in kicking the ball diagonally to our friend the right winger near the 25. The attacker accepted the pass and advanced on the D with Jackson out of position and converted easily. A gift. 1-2.

BBHC created more pressure, won short corners but continued their profligacy in front of goal. Holcombe remained resolute in defence, with a string of short corners against them as the game ended coming to nothing. Their keeper made one great save, in particular, from a flicked shot after a 1-2 variation was attempted.

A number of recent 3rd XI performances have been disappointing for generally poor team performances. Today was different. The game was there for the taking and we had the possession – we lacked the killer instinct to put chances away. Hence we were caught on the break as the whole team pushed forward.

Next week is the trip to high-flying Canterbury Millers, with more personnel changes in store.

[Andrei Mendis]

 

4th XI 3 - 6 Kings Alleyns 3rd XI (A)
Another week another loss beginning to seem a little habit forming and it's safe to say that results did not go our way this week and we now find ourselves 1 point above relegation while Anchorians and Folkestone appear to have taken on the persona of Steve McQueen and the rest of the cast from The Great Escape - well all I can say is 'good luck' (kids, watch the movie!). Oh well, never mind back to the game. We arrived at Alleyns school with an unfamiliar side and only ten players although we were lucky enough ton pick up another on the side of the pitch and as we have soft spot for waifs and strays we welcomed Barry into our motley crew (poor man had no idea what he had let himself in for!). The first half was generally pretty scary and I'm not sure I want to go over it again. It could and probably should have seen our opposition lead by double figures by the break but an inability to score left them with just the four goals at the break. At times it seemed as though they had 13 players on the pitch. Naturally it was all doom and gloom at half time. We felt that we needed to play for pride in the second half and show that we could play this game.

We started the half brightly but found ourselves going further behind to a good move from their first attack. More doom and gloom and a pinch of fear. We kept plugging away and gradually improved as our opposition took their collective 'foot' off the gas we were duly rewarded with a goal after some good work from Martin Hickman (so he claims, but I can't remember) and James Smith saw Andy Humber dink the ball over the defenders stick and then fire into the bottom right. A day later and I'm still not sure what the defender had to complain about but he didn't like it - maybe it was just because he had to chase Martin Agyei around the pitch all afternoon. As we continued to play better hockey we finally won our first short corner which was converted by a very surprised Sukh. John Gibbard ably assisted by Arthur Davies were enjoying the physical nature of the game and Barry was growing in confidence all the time. Even Rob Tyler was dragging his hung over state up and down the left linking well with Arthur and Martin Agyei. Our other Rob known as 'Steve' for the day was beginning to create a foothold in the midfield. We were playing well even if the opposition were still missing chances. Our opponents scored again and fairly soon Sukh went on a 'mazy' run and found himself one on one with the keeper. Confronted by such a fearsome sight as Sukh in full flow the keeper didn't expect such a feeble shot and inexplicably stepped over the ball. This prompted the keeper to throw down both his gloves and it is reported that he threatened to retire there and then never to play the @*?# game again. Goalkeepers, what do you do with them - bless. So 6-3 in the end and we'd managed to outscore our opposition 3-2 in the second half but in truth the game as a contest was well and truly over by then.

Mom: Sukh - a super performance and two goals to boot. A special mention to Barry - thank you very much for helping us out - what are you up to this Saturday?

DoD: James Isteed 6 goals and a mysterious hole appearing between his pads.

[James Smith]

 

5th XI 3 - 1 Sevenoaks 5th XI (H)
STOP PRESS.......... BBHC 5's won despite the skipper missing two penalty flicks. The 5's welcomed Sevenoaks to Erith School on a bright Saturday morning, with two players pulling before the match with injury put the pre planned team sheet in the bin.

Both teams started brightly, passing the ball around, it was BB who made the first strike count, a well hit ball into the D by the skipper was deflected home by newly married (and very tired!!) Udi Jayasuriya. The game continued to be played a fast pace, both sides having chances, it was the visitors who pulled level after the ball was failed to be cleared out of the BB D. The second half saw BB dominate the play, the young guns took on their counterparts and leaving them in their tracks. Some smooth inter play from BB saw Blake Bartholomew push the ball to Udi who calmly lifted the ball over the oncoming keeper. BB continued to play the ball around and confuse the visiting side, the youngsters played some truly exquisite hockey which ended with Blake taking the ball past two players and striking the ball into the bottom right corner. This is where the game gets interesting, two flicks in five minutes saw the 5's skipper embarrassingly push the ball along the floor giving the visiting keeper the easiest saves he will make this year, some supportive comments were heard to come from the 3's players for which the skipper will be ever grateful!! (I don't think so).

The final whistle came, BB had given the performance of the season against a team who were at the top end of the league. MOM goes to Rohan, Blake, Jamie, Gareth for their constant performance and skilful play. Thanks to all the players who played and helped out the side at short notice. Thanks to David Humber for umpiring. Final score BBHC 3 Sevenoaks 1

[Andy Humber]

 

Veterans 3 - 3 Cliftonville (A) (BBHC won APS) Kent Veterans Cup, 1st Round (Sunday 8th March)
BBHC were 2-0 up in the first half with some nice hockey. The first through a short corner strike from Andy Humber and a typical poacher's goal from Sammy Chana with a tap-in on the far post.

The second half become much more agricultural to say the least! Combined with the fact that 50% of the BBHC team had totally lost their legs and their brains. Cliftonville turned the tables and started to play hockey and went into the lead 3-2.

With 10 minutes to go BBHC were awarded a penalty stroke after a foot on the line, Paul Harvey calmly placing the ball in the side netting. 3-3 and all to play for in extra time. BBHC dug deep to find some energy to get through the 30 minutes of extra time, neither side were able to break the dead line.

5 penalty stroke takers were selected. Cliftonville winning the toss decided to take the first stroke which they converted convincingly.

Peter Stanley stepped up scoring the first for BBHC to make it 1-1.
Martin Mason then pulled off a great save diving to his bottom left hand corner.
Derren Westbrook stepped up and put us 2-1 ahead.
Cliftonville scored 2-2
Nick Tuckey’s flick left the keeper standing but unfortunately found the post. 2-2
Martin Mason saved an easy Cliftonville stroke. 2-2
The Cliftonville keeper denied Sammy Chana. 2-2
Cliftonvile scored their last stroke 3-2 leaving it up to the stand in captain Paul Harvey to keep the B’s in the cup.
Harvey who had already taken a stroke in normal play stepped up and once again calmly placed it into the side netting. 3-3
Cliftonvile missed their next stroke placing the opportunity of going through to the next round to Peter Stanley. He didn’t disappoint and slotted the winning goal.

Thanks to everyone that played.

[Paul Harvey]

 

Colts' Reports

U14 Boys 1 - 8 Gore Court (A)
Another game, another loss, BBHC’s U14 Boys have not been able to capitalise on the promise shown in the 1st half of the season and lost 8-1 to an accomplished Gore Court team. A sunny day in Sittingbourne brought optimism but the pattern of the game settled into something less so.

Missing Tarin Chana and Harpal Kalsi to Kent, the BBHC side was weaker than desired. The passing was there but the marking and positional sense when defending was poor, hence GC attackers were left unmarked behind the defensive line. The lads were drawn to the ball too often. Hence, Andrew Hawes in goal was left with no chance on some occasion. However, he seemed to be too passive whilst defending, which also helped GC to score more easily. A rollicking from his defenders in the last 10 minutes brought Hawes to life, when he made some splendid saves.

BBHC were able to build some attacks of their own but they were unable to convert on all but one occasion - the ball ran loose at the left post and Nathan Scott and George O'Brien pounced! O'Brien ended up striking Scott's stick as Scott pushed his shot goal-wards, hence the goal went to Scott.

Next week it's a 10:45am PB at Tonbridge School against Tunbridge Wells.

[Andrei Mendis]

 

Saturday 28th February 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 7 - 1 Old Bordenians 1st XI (A)
(D Humber [FG], K King [PC], Labourt 2 [2FG], Perfitt 2 [2FG], Stanley [PC])
2nd XI 3 - 3 Worthing 2nd XI (H)
3rd XI 2 - 3 Gravesham 1st XI (A)
(Thurlow 2 [2FG])
4th XI 3 - 6 Herne Bay 3rd XI (H)
(Ashby 2 [FG, PS], Gibbard [FG])
5th XI 0 - 5 Folkestone Optimist 5th XI (A)
6th XI 1 - 1 Gillingham Anchorians 6th XI (H)
Veterans 2 - 4 Wallington (H)

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 1 - 1 Gillingham Anchorians 1st XI (A)
2nd XI 1 - 2 Tunbridge Wells 2nd XI (H)
3rd XI 0 - 2 Kings Alleyns 1st XI (H)

 

Colts' Result

U16 Girls 1 - 4 Burnt Ash (H)
(E Kember-Hollands [PC])

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 7 - 2 Old Bordenians 1st XI (A)
Having beaten high-flying Wothing last week, BBHC were looking to continue with their good form in their visit to Old Bordenians, whom judging by their recent results had been performing well.

The game started off at a high pace, with O.Bs moving the ball round well and having some success in their attacks down the BBHC left lank but struggled penetrate the BBHC D. Soon BBHC found their stride and the mixture of short, quick passing combined with the longer balls proved fruitful as BBHC won several short corners. However, some good saves from the O.B keeper kept the scores even.

It was not long though before the lead was grabbed by BBHC. Jamie Perfit tapped home from close range after some good work from him down the right. The lead was soon doubled when a reverse shot from the top of the D by Andres Labourt beat the unsighted keeper. O.Bs looked for a quick come back with their swift switching of play combined with the long aerial ball but their best oppotunity was not tapped in at the back post.

BBHC moved their game up a gear and put O.Bs under some serious pressure, tormenting the young left and right backs with both pace and skill. Another short corner was won after some good work down the left and was converted by the self-proclaimed match-winner of last week Kevin King. With ten minutes remaining of the half, BBHC were in scintilating form, putting O.Bs under constant pressure as they continued to switch the ball round. With minutes remaining, BBHC were now running riot with the forward line dominating the young boys in the OB defence. Another short corner was won and was converted by Peter Stanley after a routine straight off the training ground came together in clinical style.

The second half saw O.Bs rework their formation in an attempt to tame the BBHC machine and after the early probing from BBHC saw the new look formation pay dividends when O.Bs first short corner was converted with a well placed drag flick to the side netting of the right hand post. This acted as a wake-up call for BBHC not to be complacent since, despite their advantage, O.Bs were more than capable of playing some good attacking hockey.

BBHC continued to play some swift decisive hockey but lacked that penetration of the first half against the wiser heads now playng at the back for O.Bs. The pace of Perfitt on the right was a constant threat though and after some good interplay between the forwards saw Labourt finish off the move. O.Bs, unperturbed by the increasing score line, stretched the BBHC defence at the time and put the BBHC goal under pressure. The next goal was to BBHC though as the O.B's defence was caught out by a quick break which saw the keeper rounded only for the goal bound shot stopped (deliberately?) on the line. Upstepped the normally relaible David Pyke for the resulting penalty stroke. However, his effort dribbled tamely off the end of his stick barely requiring a save.

BBHC continued to push forward, and were soon rewarded again. Perfitt used his pace to get behind the O.B defence. After being floored by the keeper with a legal challenge, the ball was fired home by David Humber over the grounded O.B custodian and BB forward.

Despite the unassailable lead BBHC continued in their hunt for more goals. The victory was sealed after winding run from Andrew Hosman split the home side's defence and, with an insidious reverse stick touch, placed the ball past the wrong-footed keeper. The ball was heading just wide of the right hand post until a theatrical dive from Jamie Perfit resulted in the ball being deflected home securing his double.

Another decisive performance from BBHC which sees them keep the top sides in their sights. Next week BBHC welcome struggling Tunbridge Wells.

M.O.M - Andrew Horsman
D.O.D - Andrew Horsman

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI 2 - 3 Gravesham 1st XI (A)
Coining a few phrases would sum our recent game against Gravesham:
- “it’s a game of two halves”,
- “two inches is all the difference!! (Well that’s what Matt says!)”, and
- “the better team lost”.
From the position of both playing and umpiring the game it was easy to see our shortcomings and, sadly, you do not get any points for winning only one of the halves!

For the first time in a number of weeks, we had a consistent team selection and there was none of the pre-match square pegs in round holes positioning to fulfill or scratching of heads. The team looked to have some balance and synergy. Due to the position of having to umpire the first half and also being Captain for the day (some may say in charge, but that is just a vicious rumour) it is an interesting balance to maintain, specially when watching your team warm-up as if they are about to play a summer league game!

Sadly, when the game started all this balance and synergy went out of the window, Gravesham (G) started as if semi-possessed and we started as if awoken from a coma! From the first whistle it was evident this was not going to be a pretty game of hockey thanks to the opposition's constant tackling (fair and otherwise) and our comedic usage of the ball. G pushed high as a team and always seemed to have there right back free as an outlet ball for various numbers of free hits. Without some fine work by both Sukh Chaggar and Nick Tuckey in central midfield, we would have been overrun by Gs forward play on a number of occasions.

As G had complete control of large portions of the pitch, this did leave large amounts of space for ourselves to utilise when we did have the ball but was not used due to poor movement off the ball. When the ball was used quickly into the forwards, it was easily snuffed out and G were back on the attack again.

After weathering what seemed a constant barrage of forward play from G, finally one of Andrei Mendis’ previously misplaced passes found Gareth Jones pealing out to the left wing. He quickly turned on his strong side for a change and we were on the attack. As previously we had not ventured this far up the pitch, it was evident that G were not as good going backwards as they were going forwards, we were awarded a penalty corner for our endeavour, which was sadly not converted although a good routine had been used.

The game continued in the same vein with G having the greater amount of possession but not converting from it. As we worked ourselves into the game pushing forward managing to gain a further number of penalty corners which were duly unconverted.

From a subsequent passage of play, a free hit just inside the 25 yard line of Gs half and for first time we used the pivot who happened to be birthday-boy Mike Leigh. Due to the lack of pace on the pass, it took a little controlling and, from my position, looked to have been lifted into one of Gs players ankles which the other umpire concurred with signalling Gs advantage. We had all pushed up, so this was quickly used as a counterattack, leaving Jim Jackson (goalie) in a 2 on 1 against him ,allowing a simple tap in at the back post 1-0.

From the push back, yet again the possession of the ball was cheaply given away resulting in a sideline hit to G. Whilst we argued about it, the hit was swiftly taken allowing another tap in at the back post 2-0. This would normally of resulted in our heads dropping but was not the case. We pushed forward yet again and, through some scrappy inter-play, had another penalty corner awarded from which Matt “Two inch” Thurlow chipped/scuffed the second strike over a defending player's stick from 2 inches out, 2-1. Finally, 1 converted out of 7 in first half!

Not long after Gs push back, we gifted G their 3rd goal by a slow-paced free hit allowing one of their forwards to nick the ball, passing to the back of the D for a firm shot from an acute angle (Tej Chaggar-style) into the goal. 3-1 down, we were grateful when the whistle went for half time.

After a very, very stern team talk at half time with some cajoling of the BBHC do or die spirit, we started the second half with the bit between our teeth 3-1 down with something to prove as the 1st half we had been pretty dire. We moved the ball well finally, realising that you don’t have to go forward with the ball every time you have it. We passed the ball around the back, with a very quick series of passes from the right hand side of the pitch to the left hand side opened up their defence. Due to excellent positioning of the Andrei and the quick feet of Matt - the Jekyll & Hyde twins on the left - this allowed us the first short corner of the half. Another well-worked drill allowed “Two inch” Thurlow another push the ball over the line 3-2 we are back in!

For the rest of the half, we fought to try and bring the game to a draw which we fully deserved. Our nearest chance coming to Andrei at the back hitting the post, where perhaps, on reflection a gentle sweep into the open goal may have done the trick [Actually, there was a defender just ahead of my left shoulder and the GK was at the near post! Andrei].

The desire and drive of the team was there resulting in several cards for our young charges which showed a lot more determination and fight (not something to boast about obviously, but is still good to see not shying away from challenges, etc). There was some excellent inter-play between all the young members of the team (6 under 18s) with a fantastic defence splitting pass by Sumeet Dhinsa, into Karan Chana who deflected the ball on to the onrushing Blake Bartholomew, who slipped the ball wide on the right to Joe Brown, who passed back to Sukh Chaggar in the pivot and across to (Veteran) Matt Thurlow - the passage of play did not come to anything but it was great to see that it could be done.

Despite all our efforts as a team we ran out of time, although a sense of pride should be maintained by all involved for such a valiant effort in the 2nd half. A shame out hosts deserted us at their clubhouse after a shower and food, despite a competitive game.

[Adrian Prong & Andrei Mendis]

 

4th XI 3 - 6 Herne Bay 3rd XI (H)
A competitive performance this week, against a skilful Herne Bay side. Both sides started brightly, almost acknowledging the fact that it would be an open game. It was, as usual, our opponents who made the most of their first half chances. Putting themselves 3-0 ahead at the break with all three goals coming from their main playmaker, who we appeared to be powerless to stop. Jamie Saunders was having a particularly good game beating players down our right hand side with ease. Steve Porter and Martin Hickman were having their work cut out in such an open game.

At halftime, it was clear that he next goal would be crucial. We'd made our own chances during the first half but needed to capitalise on these and we duly did with Mark Ashby turning on a sixpence (alright it wasn't quite a sixpence) to slot home to the keeper's right. We looked good going forward but left ourselves vulnerable at the back and a mixture of good breaks and poor defending saw us go 5-1 behind. We plugged away with Mark Hudson working tirelessly down the left along with Tarin who showed some good stick work. It wasn't too much of a shock that we managed to get one back, the only question was what on earth was John Gibbard doing ghosting in at the right hand post.

There was still time for Herne Bay to score a sixth and for their keeper to believe we were playing that other version of our game and falling on the ball with his gloves preventing any further play, perhaps he was expecting a 'face off' (I think that's what they call a bully on ice!). Mark Ashby then coolly converted the stroke. 6-3 and another loss with a difficult game to follow next week.

M.O.M: Jamie Saunders - a mature and skilful performance.
D.O.D: James Isteed - leaving his house without his keeping kit - the kids today!

[James Smith]

 

Colts' Reports

U16 Girls 1 - 4 Burnt Ash (H)
BBHC welcomed the familiar foe of Burnt Ash for Sunday's game.

Both teams started of brightly moving the ball about well. BBHC's direct style of play proved fruitful during the first half resulting in several short corners. As the half progressed, Ash's confidence grew. BBHC took the lead with Ellie Kember-Hollands converting with the straight strike to the corner. Ash were quick to respond though and converted just before half time, a short corner of their own tapped in on the post.

Ash came out from half time the stronger of the two sides. They seemed to have the grasp of BBHC's play by cutting out the long passes. Ash took the lead when a pass across the back was intercepted and the resulting one on one was converted. As BBHC pushed forward to grab an equaliser, they were caught out again by the Ash pace up front and conceded another on the break. Ash sealed their victory with a short corner strike, well deflected into the net leaving Milly Palmer in goal no chance.

A solid performance from BBHC in patches, which can hopefully be improved upon in their next fixture.

[Alex Webster]

 

Saturday 21st February 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 7 - 2 Old Bordenians 1st XI (H)
(Ashenden [PC], Pyke [PC], K King 2 [2PC], Labourt [FG])
2nd XI 1 - 3 Eastbourne 2nd XI (A)
(Sains FG])
3rd XI 3 - 3 Cliftonville 2nd XI (H)
(Corker [FG], Dhinsa [FG], Thurlow [PC])
4th XI 2 - 2 Folkestone Optimist 4th XI (A)
(Agyei [FG], Hickman [FG])
5th XI 0 - 5 Holcombe 5A (A)
6th XI P - P Wellcome 3rd XI (H)
Veterans P - P Addiscombe (A)

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI No Fixture
2nd XI 3 - 2 Gravesend 2nd XI (H)
3rd XI 2 - 6 Old Williamsonians 2nd XI (A)

 

Colts' Result

U18 Boys 2 - 9 Canterbury (A)

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 5 - 4 Worthing 1st XI (H)
Cometh the hour

At the Team huddle before push back Andres Labourt, their Argentinean player/coach, called his charge together and spoke these words, "passion, character, heart….we fight for each other…!" and the team didn't disappoint.

The match started and in all fairness Worthing moved the ball around very purposefully and took advantage of some slack marking and in no time, well ten minutes, found themselves two goals to the good. However, such is the character of the home team a small set back like that would not deter them. Although for the watching home spectators they must have thought Worthing could be on for a rout.

Every team needs players who stand up to be counted when the pressure is on. So who better than a multi-medal collector. BBHC enjoyed some good ball retention and a swift break down the right and into the Worthing D results in a Short Corner (SC). A well and trusted routine is used, Andres to Kevin King, goal and The B's are back in it!

Oh dear. The momentum shifts back to Worthing who are rewarded a penalty flick. The Cookie Monster is beaten 3-1. BBHC step up the pace and after good attacking link up play get another SC. This time Sam Ashenden steps up and the 'Baby Faced Assassin' dispatches a blistering drag flick 3-2. A fire has been lit under The B's. A surging run from Andres shows he has the beating of the Worthing backline, and their goalkeeper, with a fine finish at the near post 3-3. A the end of a pulsating first half BBHC win a SC. Controversy follows after some umpire decision making and BBHC pressure leave Worthing reeling.

Second half, 3-3, now here comes the heart. The match pace has stepped up a level and the forward line is being rotated Jamie Perfitt, Dan Lucas and Andy Tither are doing the lateral running into channels; David Pyke is mixing up the long balls down the line with aerials over the top. What's this…disaster! With BBHC on top a SC is rewarded to Worthing. The ball gets lifted and the umpire penalises Ravi Chana for an infringement and a second Penalty Stroke is given. Worthing score 3-4.

BBHC Men's 1st Team regroup and mount a final rally with 20 or so minutes remaining. The game is not pleasing on the eye but the result is all that matters. Even defenders are making surging runs with Ben 'Lego Head' Bradley making a break up the field to support in the search of an equaliser.

And it soon comes after a run and a pass from Andres to Horse who fluffs the shoot but gains a SC. From which '2 goal King' doubles his tally with the deftest of touches, again supplied by Andres. 4-4

With time running out, stoppages due to umpires having to talk players and captains about incidents the game was edging towards a draw. And then one final gallop up the pitch results in SC to BBHC. The ball injected but the stopper Pykey has to take it strong. Aims for the…doesn't matter where he was aiming it went in. 5-4

Final whistle blows. Remarkable comeback and a great game for the spectators. A match played by men showing passion, character, heart and fight!

[Andrew "Horse" Horsman]

 

2nd XI 1 - 3 Eastbourne 2nd XI (A)
BBHC 2nd XI visited high-flying Eastbourne on a bright sunny afternoon. Preparations for the game were not extensive as usual due to the fact that BBHC arrived 10 minutes after the start time.

Despite the lack of preparations, BBHC started well and took the game to the home side, putting them under pressure and preventing their normal passing game by quickly closing down the opposition. However, Eastbourne soon found their feet and took the lead after a well worked short corner routine was converted with a deflection at the back post. BBHC continued to play some good hockey but it was always the home side who looked more likely to score. They further extended their lead after working their way round the back on the BBHC right and the resulting pass across goal was deflected in by defender Alex Webster as he attempted to intercept.

BBHC came out in the 2nd half hoping to grab an early goal and find their way back into the game. Attacking oppotunities were few and far between for both teams with both defences playing well. Eastbourne lost a player to a yellow card for kicking the ball away, after being bamboozled by Paul Harvey's stickwork. This extra man for BBHC soon led to a goal with Dave Humber setting up Allan Sains for a pile driver into the roof of the net past the opposition keeper. The two goal advantage was restored though after Eastbourne converted another short corner. With the initial shot being saved by Steve Porter in goal, he was unable to stop the follow-up shot being flicked passed his right hand side. The scores remained unchanged until the final whistle.

A 1-3 defeat for the 2nd XI but a solid performance which they will hope to continue and improve upon for next weeks game vs Worthing. Many thanks for Eastbourne providing both umpires.

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI 3 - 3 Cliftonville 2nd XI (H)
The memory of the 9-2 drubbing we got at Jackey Bakers before Christmas lingered as BBHC's Men's 3rd XI faced off with Cliftonville's 2nd XI once more at a sunny Erith School. A young BBHC side welcomed back Ian Cole from hibernation and Andrei Mendis from a 3 weekend stag do/stag do injury (bruised ribs!)/wedding sabbatical.

In fact, we seemed to pick up where we left off back in the autumn. Luckily, the visitors were equally abysmal in the first 10 minutes as passes went astray and shots were mis-hit. Only young Karan Chana seemed to be showing any consistent form, with some fine tackling from left back.

Cliftonville drew first blood thanks to a tamely lifted flick at a short corner. Andrei Mendis, the man on the post, seemed to avoid the shot at the last second as it sailed through the air in slow motion towards him, Matrix-style. 4 weeks of no exercise dulls the mind, clearly.

Both sides slowly upped their game beyond U14's hockey level and began to move the round more pleasingly thereafter. And BBHC finally levelled matters at a short corner, where the first strike by Gareth Jones was poorly hit at the keeper. The onrushing Sumeet Dhinsa was on hand to lift home the rebound, to much rejoicing.

1-1 at half time and the game was there for the taking. However, we stuck with our game plan of stringing 2 passes together then giving the ball away cheaply in midfield! The midfield also consistently failed to support the attackers and defenders. The net effect was that Cliftonville extended their lead to 3-1 with some sloppy BBHC play for the 2nd and the 3rd, the latter squeezing under the dive of GK Jim Jackson.

Thankfully, we kept plugging away, and with 3 minutes to go, another weak Jones short corner strike was turned in (with greater pace) by Matt Thurlow. And with a minute to go, Andrei's firm free hit from the right of the D found captain Dave Corker at the top of the D. His swept shot found the left side board of the goal as the visiting keeper's footwork was found wanting.

Final score 3-3. Many thanks to Dave Pyke and James Baldwin for umpiring.

With the personnel available, this should have been a win. Poor first touch and ball retention meant we put ourselves under pressure needlessly. All 3 points need to be taken at Gravesham next Saturday.

[Andrei Mendis]

 

4th XI 2 - 2 Folkestone 4th XI (A)
An away game at the seaside usually sees the odd drop out, but we arrived at Folkestone at full strength and with a sub - wonders will never cease. We wanted a victory to boost our survival chances; a loss would be unthinkable. Naturally we gifted them a goal in the opening few minutes as is our usual beginning, the only blessing being that it was only one goal and there was a long time to go.

As expected the game was a fairly tight affair with neither side creating enormous amounts of chances. It might have been a case of paranoia, but nothing seemed to be going our way an early goal and numerous bizarre decisions appeared to sum up the game culminating in the yellow carding of a player from each side, the mild mannered Rob Tyler seeing yellow for ungentlemanly conduct and one of our opponents for retaliating.

This of course helped our paranoia no end with our focus being taken away from the job at hand. We did have a few chances - mainly from short corners - but even they didn't work on the beach that is Cheriton Road. Our best play was generally coming down the right through Mike Leigh and Jamie Saunders. So behind at half time, a need to refocus on the game and for our skipper to remember he had 12 players and that the silent Tarin Chana had managed to be a spectator for the entire half, but as he pointed out later he didn't give the ball away once in the first half - surely man of the match material!

As the second half started neither side looked capable of taking the game by the scruff of the neck. We made good progress down the left through Mark Hudson and Rob, won a few more short corners, while Andy Humber looked competitive up front. Finally a short corner went well being returned to Martin Hickman to score on the second attempt.

At this point in the game, we looked more dangerous than our opponents and rightfully took the lead through a powerfully driven cross from Andy Humber which Martin Agyei somehow managed to sweep home on the strong side. At this point Andrei managed to limp off and almost as soon as we reshuffled our side Folkestone drew level from a good move and finish from close range by their unmarked forward.

As well as we had been playing, we now started to look a little nervous - perhaps losing 5 in row does this to you. Folkestone had more chances to win the game than ourselves but fortunately we held out.

We have 6 games to go 4 of which are at home and we still need to improve out form to guarantee safety especially with Anchorians winning this week. It's tight and we need to start again this week with the visit of Herne Bay, at least we should have more players than in the reverse fixture. Thanks guys for making the trip and thanks to Folkestone for supplying both umpires.

MoM: Mike Leigh a solid performance in both defence and attack.

DoD: Rob Tyler - for seeing yellow!

[James Smith]

 

Colts' Report

U18 Boys 2 - 9 Canterbury (A)
This was perhaps the lads' best performance of the season and the final score should really have been 6-2 on the balance of play. With this being Canterbury's 2nd string U18's team, we had a chance to get a respectable result since this was our strongest squad of the season. This was thanks to the availability of Andrew Mendl and David Humber, and we were bolstered by U14s Harpal Kalsi, and Rohan and Tarin Chana.

This strengthened line-up saw BBHC take possession into the Canterbury half for the 1st 5 minutes with some fine passing in tight spaces and creating pressure on the Canterbury D. However, shots were not forthcoming and the hosts took control with some more expansive passing, and pressing the BB team in their half.

The first Canterbury goal took 15 minutes to arrive but was followed by a swift second. Yet BBHC continued to string passes together as they became more accustomed to the bouncy, water-based turf and penetrated the D a number of times. On one such raid, Blake Bartholomew slotted home after some indecision by the home keeper. However, Canterbury fashioned 2 more goals by half time to lead 4-1.

The team talk was encouraging and emphasised that there were goals to be by us. Humber, Mendl, Gareth Jones and Blake Bartholomew maintained the able spine to the team and brought out the best in their team mates. Thus 2 more Canterbury goals were no discouragement and some slick play through the inside right channel presented Mendl with a cross which he finished well to make it 6-2.

The final 3 Canterbury goals were more down to their ability to counterattack quickly and through some unfortunate ricochets in the D bringing the score to 9-2. A worse result than the friendly earlier in the season, but all who watched that game were impressed by the progress made here.

Many thanks to Kevin King for running the team on the day.

If the Old Bordenians match is not rescheduled by then, next up are Bromley & Beckenham on 22nd March at Erith School. We hope to get a full squad out then for what could be a tougher game!

[Andrei Mendis]

 

 

Saturday 14th February 2009

Men's Results

1st XI P - P Eastbourne 1st XI (A)
2nd XI 10 - 2 Brighton and Hove 3rd XI (H)
(P Harvey 2 [2FG], Sains 4 [4FG], A Tither [FG], Wheeler 2 [2FG], J White [FG])
3rd XI 0 - 4 Old Bordenians 3rd XI (A)
4th XI 2 - 5 Holcombe 4A (H)
(Agyei [PC], A Humber [PC])
5th XI 0 - 5 Tunbridge Wells 4th XI (H)
6th XI 0 - 5 Sutton Valence 5th XI (A)

1st XI 2 - 2 Jersey 1st XI (A) (BBHC lost 3-2 on Golden Goal) - Harrod UK Men's Trophy 4th Round (Sunday 15th February 2009)

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 1 - 2 Bromley and Beckenham 2nd XI (A)
2nd XI No Fixture
3rd XI No Fixture

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 2 - 2 Jersey 1st XI (A) (BBHC lost 3-2 on Golden Goal) - Harrod UK Men's Trophy 4th Round (Sunday 15th February 2009)

Pre-match preparation:

The weekend trip to Jersey to play in the Harrod UK Men's Trophy started early on Saturday (8.30am meet at the clubhouse). The team managed to get to the airport in one piece and with ample time to spare. The self check in system was new to some but they finally managed to figure out what to do. This then led to waiting in the long queues (the airport full of holidaymakers – some off skiing to get away from the British weather!!) to get the baggage checked in. The queues for security were not so bad but the only thing that you were not asked to remove were your underclothes. Having negotiated the defensive strategy of the airport security the team members were able to get some breakfast and wait for the call to the gate.

Miraculously, the flight was on time and full. For most members of the team the flight was uneventful. Andrew Horsman decided to catch up on sleep from his previous night's exploits and late night (or early morning). Cookie on the other hand could not find enough space for his legs and managed to annoy the passenger in front, who happened to be James Baldwin (this was to have major consequences – more on this later!!).

Concerns that the team might have to play using borrowed equipment were unfounded as the baggage arrived in full and undamaged. Taxis to the hotel followed and the team got checked in to the hotel, which seemed stuck in the time in 1970s.

Despite the furnishing and style of the hotel, the hosts at the hotel were very accommodating and the food very good. Kev King took the credit for organising the food although the general consensus was that the proprietors/management of the hotel provided good food and Kev had nothing to do with it. The players knew that tomorrow was an important day and did not indulge too heavily in alcoholic beverages (except for the odd beer and vodka & coke!!).

With a reasonable night's sleep the team had a healthy breakfast and an hour later the captain led them out for a morning run in the local park. On return to the hotel Kev and Andreas went through the strategy for the game. This then left 2 hours to kill before departure to the game.

Everyone did their own thing. With a bit of mischief in mind James and Pykie (‘the chuckle brothers’) managed to work their way to Cookie’s room and decide to hit the ball around. James’s memory of the plane journey were still fresh and he decided to flick the ball at Cookie and caught him on the right of his face. Without his usual goalie helmet to protect him this left a bruise and a bump on Cookie face. Thankfully there was no blood – James’s!! I do not want to say this was deliberate but the evidence speaks for itself!! To be fair it was only a scratch so no major harm done. But the moral of the story is do not go anywhere near James or Pykie when they are messing around with a stick and ball.

Jersey HC had kindly arranged for transport for the team from hotel to the pitch, which arrived as stated on time.

The Match:

On arrival at the pitch the team changed and had a brief team talk. All were looking forward to the game.

The team went through a thorough warm up session, with the usual (and customary) antics from the chuckle brothers.

The pitch started to get surrounded by supporters of Jersey HC, in anticipation of watching an entertaining match.

The teams took to the battle field, and immediately BBHC started the stronger side. With five minutes gone a free hit outside the top of the Jersey D was hit hard and straight towards the Jersey goal by Andreas labourt. James managed to get his stick to it and deflected the ball into the Jersey goal (1-0 BBHC).

Jersey then started to play the ball around and started pushing forward. Their midfield players started receiving the ball and made some strong runs through the middle. There were some strong tackles from both teams, but James was judged to go a little stronger than necessary for one of them and was shown the green card.

Both teams started winning short corners, but it was Jersey, mid way through the first half, that took advantage and scored with a well taken drag flick to the right hand post of the BBHC goal (1-1). This buoyed the crowd who started to encourage the Jersey players. BBHC made the basic error of diving in prematurely for tackles, which the stronger Jersey players were deft at avoiding.

Soon afterwards Jersey broke through the BBHC defence from their left and managed to work the ball into the BBHC goal from open play (2-1 to Jersey). BBHC did win further corners which they failed to convert. This put further pressure on BBHC and the crowd was enjoying their day out. The umpiring also did not go the way of BBHC, with several decisions of the ball not moving a full metre from a free hit being given against BBHC. The Jersey players took full advantage of this and constantly kept reminding the umpire of this rule, while they themselves were only about 3-4 meters away while the free hit was taken.

The whistle for the end of the first half came just as Jersey were about to take a short corner. The umpire said that a Jersey player was encroaching the BBHC D and blew a foul against Jersey.

The half time team talk focussed around not diving into tackles and containing the stronger Jersey players.

The second half started with strong play from both teams, but the team talk at half time seemed to have worked better for BBHC as they started to win the midfield battles. After missing several short corner chances BBHC finally managed to score one, Andreas’ strong sweep pass managing to find its way to Kev King, who diverted the ball into the Jersey goal (2-2) – game on.

The crowd started to encourage the Jersey team again, and Jersey started pushing forward trying to break down the BBHC defence. BBHC had to work hard to keep Jersey at bay. To stop one of the midfield runs James managed to get a stick but was judged to use deliberate foot to kick the ball away. This gained him the yellow card and a five minute rest!! Kev made some tactical changes and BBHC stood strong, with some excellent work by Ben Bradley. Jersey changed their tactics and put two people high in the hope to pin BBHC back, however thanks to some good midfield work the ball did not get through to the Jersey forwards, and, with the five minute penalty over, BBHC were back to full strength and getting the upper hand.

The attacking play by BBHC continued with some strong passes down the right side from David Pyke and some good runs from Jamie Perfitt and Peter Stanley. Despite this good passage of play BBHC were not able to take the lead, and the umpire blew for full time.

The umpires announced that extra time will consist of two 7 minute halves with a golden goal to win the match.

After a quick team talk BBHC looked in good shape and felt confident. However, after 3 minutes of the first half of extra time, fate (or should I say the umpires whistle) dealt a cruel blown when a Jersey forward was thought have been fouled in the BBHC D. A short corner was awarded to Jersey. The initial drag flick was saved by Cookie, but the ball fell kindly for a Jersey player who managed to slap the ball into the BBHC goal (3-2 to Jersey) and with that BBHC were knocked out of the Trophy – game over.

BBHC felt hard done by with the umpires decision and a few players showed their frustrations. During the warm down the Jersey supporters showed their appreciation at having watched a good match by clapping the visiting side.

This reporter was not able to stay for the after match festivities and so cannot comments further on:

• What happened after the game;
• Whether the whole team got back in one piece or several pieces (with some hangovers);
• Whether the team were still talking to each other.

NB – The reporter does not take any responsibility for any further actions by Cookie or James for the on-going off the field antics. And furthermore, for any of the antics thus far resumed by the Chuckle Brothers.

[Ravi Chana]

 

3rd XI 0 - 4 Old Bordenians 3rd XI (A)
BBHC visited Old Bordenians on Saturday with revenge for the embarassing home defeat earlier in the season in mind.

O.B's started of the stronger of the sides, keeping BB pinned back for the first 10 minutes. It took time for BB to gel and to start working as team moving the ball about. However, O.B's continued to have the better of the play though, winning several short corners. The home side finally took the lead after a penalty stroke was awarded. Tom Barnett was left with two attackers and managed to intercept the pass, but with the wrong side of his stick, resulting in the flick which was sucessfully converted. This spurred BB into action and much better hockey was being played. The ball transferred well around the back stretched O.Bs but the final pass was still missing and the O.Bs keeper was never really troubled.

The second half saw BB attempting to play the same good hockey they had at the end of the first half. However, O.Bs were quick to stop the BB transfer and this resulted in BBs trying to play their way through O.Bs, who were quick to overload the flanks. BBHC were unable to do the same though and O.B.s managed to grab two quick goals by switching the ball quickly before slotting home. BB continued to fight and did manage to win several short corners but with no end result. O.B completed their tally with a well struck shot from an impossibly tight angle.

A closer game than the score suggests but O.Bs deserved their 3 points. BBHC performed well in spells with some good flowing hockey but were too slow getting started and couldn't keep it up. Many thanks to O.Bs for providing both umpires.

[Alex Webster]

 

4th XI 2 - 5 Holcombe 4A (H)
A very competitive match this week saw us on the wrong end of 5-2 scoreline. Holcombe started strongly as you would expect from a team sat at the top of the league. We looked bright on the attack with Martin Agyei making those runs that only he understands and Mark Hudson (in yet another position) revelling in the space on the left. As it was we went behind to a wicked deflection off Simon Brown (not the first or the last either). We had numerous chances through short corners but could not convert and looked strong at the back with Barry Stott, Simon Brown, John Gibbard and Mike Leigh all having good games.

We got to half time one goal behind and feeling in good spirits, but, as so often seems to happen to us, we found ourselves further behind. This time to a dubious short corner, which was converted via a second deflection off Simon and James Isteed’s pads. We tried hard to get back into the game but fell further behind to an incisive break. 3-0 down we were competing well but without any luck with both Tarin and Rohan Chana showing good stickwork. We were still dangerous and finally got a reward from a short corner which was converted expertly by Andy Humber.

Sadly Holcombe hit back almost immediately. They had time to squeeze one through James’s legs as well as lose a player for the last few minutes as they began to lose their discipline - a strange thing to do at 5-1 up but we weren’t complaining - as we managed another consolation with Martin Agyei converting from a short corner.

So a good performance, but a heavy defeat. We look forward to a crucial game at Folkestone next week with some confidence if we can play as we have done in the last two games.

MoM: James Smith according to the three people that voted – although it did cost me some beer.
DoD: Simon Brown – two own goals and a glorious pass acroos the top of the d to the centre forward.

[James Smith]

 

5th XI 0 - 5 Tunbridge Wells 4th XI (H)
BBHC 5's welcomed a much changed bottom of the league Tunbridge Wells. Several clichés could be used to described the game, 'men against boys', 'a game of two halfs' are two that spring readily to mind.

As previously stated, Wells at the bottom of the league turned up with a 'mature' team which took advantage of the younger looking BB side, with BB only having five adults and seven youngsters Wells forced home their physical size advantage over the home team, putting doubt into the young minds with some strong, sometimes excessively robust play. All that can be said of the first half is that BB went in 0-5 down. Some encouraging words from the adults and a re-arranged formation, BB put Wells on the back foot, BB keeping the ball and the young guns having their confidence restored taking on their much larger opponents and creating some chances, unfortunately none were put away.

MOM goes to all the youngsters, for their performance in the second half. BBHC need to pick up some wins to remain in the middle of the table, support from the selection committee and experienced players of the club would be greatly appreciated. The game ending BBHC 0 Tonbridge Wells 5. Thanks to Martin Agyei for umpiring.

[Andy Humber]

 

 

Saturday 7th February 2009

Men's Results

1st XI vs Folkestone 1st XI (H) - Postponed, frozen pitch
2nd XI 1 - 4 Canterbury 3rd XI (A)
(Ashby [FG])
3rd XI 1 - 4 Gore Court 3rd XI (A)
(D King [FG])
4th XI vs Old Williamsonians 3rd XI (H) - Postponed, frozen pitch
5th XI 0 - 2 Uni of Kent 2nd XI (A)
6th XI vs Ashford 6th XI (H) - Postponed, frozen pitch
Vets vs Kenley (A) - Postponed, frozen pitch

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI vs Burnt Ash 1st XI (H) - Postponed, frozen pitch
2nd XI 1 - 0 Cliftonville 1st XI (A)
3rd XI vs Canterbury 3A (H) - Postponed, frozen pitch

 

Colts' Results

U12 Girls triangular fixture with Ashford and Maidstone (at Ashford) - 1-5 (R Jones [FG]); 0-7; 0-2; 0-2
U12 Boys friendlies with Sevenoaks, Marden Russets and T. Wells (at Sevenoaks) - Canceleld, frozen pitch
U18 Boys vs Old Bordenians (H) - Postponed, frozen pitch

 

Men's Reports

3rd XI 1 - 4 Gore Court 3rd XI (A)
From last week's highs, BBHC Men's 3s were soundly brought back down to earth with what can only be described as an all round poor team performance. We lacked cohesion, desire and a overall will to win.

From the push back Gore Court (GC) pressed high and were looking to take an early lead using there ex-GB International to run the show from midfield (which he did exceptionally well at!). Without some last-ditch tackling by the defence and 3 superb saves by Jimbo Jackson, we could have easily been several goals down in the first quarter of the half.

When we did have the ball, we looked rushed and uncomposed - generally caused by the lack of off-the-ball movement which limited the opportunities to move the ball on freely as had been the case on previous weeks. The first goal shortly followed with poor marking allowing a swiftly taken free hit to wrong-foot our defence. The GC centre forward was allowed a straight strike on goal 1-0.

This did galvanize ourselves immediately, if only temporarily, into some direct attacking where the ball was worked quickly from one end of the pitch to the other. However, when quick free hits and passes were made, the next pass into the attacking 3rd was either missing or not swift enough in completion to allow GC to step across and limit the options. From one of these attacking forays, play was swiftly broken down allowing a counter attack of 4 vs 2 in GC's favour. The first 2 tackles managed to initially re-buff them. Unfortunately the danger was not cleared in either case and allowed a simple tap in at the back post 2-0.

Although GC were now 2-0 up some of the younger GC players' tackling and attitude was of a agricultural fashion which required several of BBHC players to over exaggerate in response. This allowed the umpire to realise and speak to the relevant player involved.

Half time shortly in sued where a shell shocked team sat in the dug- out and discussed where it was going wrong. Which was an endless list.

We started the second half ever so brightly and things were looking up we had managed to claw our way back into the game, even if it was only on the possession front. This could have led to goals to bring ourselves back into it and re-gain some all round confidence. We just needed an early one and we had a number of opportunities plus 5 short corners of which none were converted.

Due to the amount of players pushing to get forward and make the difference, we were rather exposed to fast counter attack's when GC did get the ball. Which led to them missing 2 clear open goals as they, yet again, had a 4 vs 2 . A short corner was awarded in what can only be described as bizarre umpiring in our half of the pitch/ D. Said short corner came from a ball pushed onto both of the feet of a GC player, which then cleared the back line by about a good 10cm or so!

This was duly converted by a straight strike passed an unsighted Jim 3-0. This did seem to incense the whole team and some fine inter-play by all the midfield and Martin Hickman up front allowed the squat Assassin Dave King to ghost into the top of the D, under-cutting the ball into the goal 3-1.

Perhaps we may have been able to get a draw but sadly this was not the case as yet again some interesting umpiring ensued. An excellent tackle in our D which led to a 3rd party offence by GC. BBHC was told to play on as we had the advantage - the advantage being that we did not have the ball! This was passed to the back line of the D where GC player used the wrong side of the stick to bash his way into the goal 4-1.

With the strong squad of players we had, the amount of possession, and 7 un-converted short corners we did have, it was a shame that a better result was not forthcoming. Hopefully next Saturday's return trip to the other Sittingbourne club may produce the much-needed points.

[Adrian Prong]

 

5th XI 0 - 2 Uni of Kent (A)
A makeshift team visited the students. As usual we found a team full of running and with some skill. We hoped that a bit of know how and nous would set us in good stead. Sadly the pitch was somewhat slippery and made several of us appear to play like Bambi on ice – yes ok, I stacked it! We started brightly and always looked dangerous going forward with our young forward line working well. Sadly our opposition managed to convert from a short corner midway through the first half after missing a fair few.

1-0 down at half time and with lots to play for we changed our formation at half time and this seemed to give us better balance but with us chasing the game we were always susceptible to leaking a goal and we did just that. A final score of 2-0 and no disgrace against a side that didn't let us settle for a moment. There were some creditable performances from the old as well as the young.

[James Smith]

Colts' Reports

U12 Girls triangular fixture with Ashford and Maidstone (at Ashford) - 1-5; 0-7; 0-2; 0-2
On a weekend of limited hockey for the rest of the club, our U12 Girls travelled to Ashford for a second triangular fixture.

The Girls had an enjoyable morning and although the results weren't great they played with great enthusiasm and got better as the games went on. Maidstone had 2 keepers with them and so lent us one for each match which was much appreciated.Ashford U12 boys who's game had been cancelled joined in to provide more matches and variety.

BBHC first played Ashford girls and despite some valiant defending lost 1-5, with Rosie Jones getting the goal. Then they played Maidstone girls this time losing 0-7. After a re-arrangement of the team a much better game was had against the Ashford U12 Boys just losing 0-2. The final game was against Ashford girls again and this time just losing 0-2. BBHC had plenty of chances in the last 2 games to score but in true BBHC style did not take them.

Thanks to the parents for their support and encouragement.

[Steve Hawes]

 

 

Saturday 31st January 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 2 - 2 Kings College London 1st XI (A)
2nd XI 5 - 0 Old Bordenians 2nd XI (H)
(P Harvey [FG], L Humber [PC], Sains 3 [2FG, PC])
3rd XI 0 - 0 Blackheath 3rd XI (H)
4th XI 3 - 5 Wellcome 1st XI (A)
(Hickman 2 [2PC], Tyer [FG])
5th XI 3 - 3 Sutton Valence 4th XI (H)
(A Humber [FG], Jayasuriya [FG], P Williams [FG])
6th XI 1 - 3 Marden Russets 4th XI (A)

2nd XI 2 - 2 Harborne 2nd XI (H) (BBHC win 4-3 on penalty strokes) - EH Men's 2nd XI Trophy (Quarter Final - Sun 1st Feb)
(Pickersgill [FG], Sains [PC])

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 1 - 4 Upminster 1st XI (A)
2nd XI 2 - 1 Old Bordenians 1st XI (H)
3rd XI 0 - 3 Greenwich Polygons 1st XI (A)

 

Colts' Results

U14 Boys 2 - 4 Old Bordenians (A)
(H Kalsi [PC], P Williams [FG])

 

Men's Reports

2nd XI 5 - 0 Old Bordenians 2nd XI (H)
BBHC welcomed Old Bordenians on a chilly Saturday afternoon.

It started off well for BBHC taking the lead within minutes from a short corner strike by Allan Sains. Old Bordenains fought hard though and played some good hockey but was well matched by the BBHC defence. BBHC managed to extend their lead before half time though with another short corner strike from Lee Humber.

The second hald saw O.Bs pushing forward in search of a way back into the game. This allowed BBHC too much space upfront and the goals flowed. A reverse sick strike from Sains from an absurdly acute angle into the roof of the net was soon followed by a flick into the side netting from Paul Harvey. Sains completed his hattrick with a well placed shot.

A solid performance and fantastic result.

[Alex Webster]

 

2nd XI 2 - 2 Harborne 2nd XI (H) (BBHC win 4-3 on penalty strokes)
- EH Men's 2nd XI Trophy (Quarter Final - Sun 1st Feb)
BBHC seled their place in the Men's 2nd XI Trophy semi final with a dramatic win over visiting Harborne on a snowy day at Erith school.

Harborne started of the better side moving the ball round well and stretching BBHC. They took the lead after a short corner was converted. BBHC improved as the half progressed but Harborne extended their lead after a horendous tackle by Adrian Webster resulted in a penalty stroke for the visitors.

The second hald saw BBHC come out with a positive attitude and this soon paid off after a short corner strike was converted by Allan Sains. The game now became a frantic affair with some hetfy challenges and someend to end action. BBHC drew level after Mark Pickersgill converted with a flick past the outstretched keeper. Both sides continued to fashion chances before the full time whistle but it was BBHC whom came closest after allan Sains dragged one wide fo the post in a one on one with the keeper.

After two periods of extra time, with no goal being scored the game went to penalty strokes. It started off badly for BBHC with Lee Humber having his flick well saved, but with some heroics from Steve Porter in goal drew the game level. BBHc continued to put their flicks away and when harborne put one wide, the spoils went to BBHC.

A well fought win that saw the entire team put in 100% for the entire game.

Also, check out the Harborne HC report:
http://www.harborne-hockey.co.uk/fixtures/fixtures.php?section=Mens&team=2

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI 0 - 0 Blackheath 3rd XI (H)
On a bitterly cold afternoon a motley crew of a 3rd XI. Faced runaway leaders of the league Blackheath. As if to highlight the gulf, the visitors had a matching warm-up kit all with there names on the back!

From the push back it seemed that the heath had already a fore gone conclusion of a positive result to them. They started extremely brightly pushing for an immediate goal, with some good passing and a bulldozer like play for the first 7 minutes or so. Surely it would only be a matter of time before they did score.

With the interesting team line up there was some superb defending by debutante Michael tither, speedy Dave king, David "I will be sweeper in there half of the pitch" Corker and me. Also the whole team played as a compact unit making it extremely hard for the heath at the breakdown in play, free hits and corners to utilise there possession.

With ourselves building into the game in confidence and possession, this allowed the tireless work of Suhk Chagger to pay getting new boy Harry on the ball who once given it started to completely dominate the play in midfield. Using a variant of passes from aerials to well placed flicks.
To add to our superiority in this area a tactical sub of Ravi for Sukh meant that surely would only be a matter of time till we scored, sadly this was not the case.

The first half progressed with the heath becoming more and more aggrieved at any umpiring decision not in there favour. They also became more and more aggressive in there tackles trying to gain a foothold in a game which was slipping away from them.

Half time 0-0 we were sure that we had the upper hand and if we started the half moving the ball and working for each other a win could be ours.

From the push back we moved the ball extremely well from one side of the pitch round the back to the other and soon forced a short corner, which was hit very well by Ravi a bit to well as it was about 2ft above the back board! Along with the shortly following short corner which was 1ft above the back board (bit of a pattern forming with Ravi's shooting). We continued to have the larger portion of the play with large periods when the whole team was in there half of the pitch. Unfortunately the best oppurtunity fell to the "3 metre Ferret", Gareth who sadly this week was unable to finish the much deserved goal for our endeavour. From a brilliant team performance we had seemed to have completely expelled any of the team coordination from the opposition who now preferred the hit it long to the front tactic, which was easily contained and dealt with.

Although we did manage to concede a couple of short corner's one of which was swiftly passed to Nick Tuckey setting ourselves back onto the attack with Ravi ghosting into the d passed 3 players having a first shot which was stopped and following up with what can only be described as a looping flick at the goal, which for some reason the Heath right back decided he was going to control by moving to chest it down! Of which a penalty flick was awarded, where both umpires were surrounded by players from Blackheath and due to offensive language a yellow card was awarded to one of the number.

Up stepped debutante Harry as he claimed he used to penalty flick for his other team! He claimed he miss flicked it, by the jury is still out on that one.

Summing up was a excellent team performance and something which can be built on for the rest of the season. Special mention must be made for "Paul" Chaggar (Sukh's Dad) guesting as a brilliant right back. Matt Thurlow for continuing the 3rd team tradition of feigning hamstring injury as Andrei was not playing. Andy Humber for providing excellent umpiring throughout the game

[Adrian Prong]

 

4th XI 3 - 5 Wellcome 1st XI (A)
An away game with 12 players and an umpire (thank you Mark), such a treat. At least it was until we started. We found ourselves 2-0 down after about ten minutes through a weak short corner and a goal from open play. We looked like a team lacking confidence which we needn't have done as we had actually started quite brightly. A quick huddle before we restarted seemed to change things a little. We managed to get a goal back through Martin Hickman at a short corner, though we had a little help from both umpires, who after a brief discussion decided that the goal would stand. In what was proving to be quite an open first half we then scored a second goal from a short corner, using the same move and they same scorer. So from two goals down we found ourselves level and in a truly competitive game. Not only were we competing well we actually took the lead from a free hit just outside the'd' which was slid in under the keeper's armpit by Rob Tyler. Unfortunately we were unable to maintain this lead through to half-time with our opponents successfully adopting the same short corner routine as ourselves.

The second half was as open as the first, with both sides having chances and numerous short corners and neither being able to convert. In the end it came down to a mistake by us which lead to a 4th goal for Wellcome and as we pushed more men forward we were always going to leave ourselves open to a counter and that was unfortunately what happened. So a much improved performance saw us come away empty handed, but with confidence a little higher.

MoM: Martin Hickman A solid performance in midfield capped by two goals.

DoD Ben Ayre for once again 'roofing' the first strike at a short corner, well we got away with it once!

[James Smith]

 

5th XI 3 - 3 Sutton Valence 4th XI (H)
BBHC 5's welcomed Sutton Valence to a cold Erith School, with yet again a much changed team, with only one recognised defender BB were on the back foot from the start. Valance passed the ball around assuredly without an end product, BB taking the lead after an 'old skool' reverse strike from Humber forcing the keeper to stretch, the rebounded ball being put in by Jayasuriya. This gave BB the confidence in their play, the ball being moved around swiftly, then a penalty corner was given against the home side and converted. The visitors then took the lead after BB allowing the ball to be swiftly moved through the half and back line without a challenge.

The second half saw BB come out fighting, the ball being moved around and passes being placed firmly, this was capitalised when a creative passing move by Rohan Chana ended with Phillip Williams striking the ball at goal and Humber picking up the rebound flicking the ball to the right of the net. The attacking continued, within three minutes the ball was again in the Valence net, Rohan making a weaving run down the left, passing it to Phillip Williams who calmly placed around the oncoming keeper. The joy was short lived, Valence pulled a goal back within two minutes of the restart. A great all-round performance, a special mention to the youngsters of the team who played a enormous contribution to the performance. Thanks to the fill in players for your assistance, you know who you are. Thanks to Dave Corker, Allan Sains, David Humber for umpiring (long story). Final score BBHC 3 Sutton Valence 3.

[Andy Humber]

 

Colts' Reports

U14 Boys 2 - 4 Old Bordenians (A)
BBHC's U14 Boys got back to the hockey they can play after a couple of below par performances with a determined display against strong opponents.

The Old Boys started strongly and scored after 10 minutes but our lads were getting into their stride and came fighting back with Phillip Williams getting a goal. It was now an entertaining end to end game and the Old Boys grabbed a goal just before half time.

The second half continued in the same vein and BBHC pulled back an equaliser scored by Harpal from a short corner. The Old boys soon restored their lead also from a short corner. With the snow starting to fall BBHC pushed for another equaliser but conceded a late goal that was to see the last of the action as markings on the pitch were disappearing under the intensifying snow. A great performance that just lacked a better finish in from of goal.

Thanks to Bal for coaching the boys and the support of the parents on a very cold day.

[Steve Hawes]

 

 

Saturday 24th January 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 3 - 1 Blackheath 1st XI (A)
(Ashenden [FG], Baldwin [FG], Labourt [FG])
2nd XI 2 - 2 Blackheath 2nd XI (H)
3rd XI P - P Sevenoaks 4A (A) - Frozen pitch
4th XI 1 - 4 New Beccehamians 2nd XI (H)
5th XI 1 - 3 Old Bordenians 5th XI (A)
(Allen [PC])
6th XI 0 - 1 Old Bordenians 4B (H)

1st XI 2 - 4 Marden Russets 1st XI (A) - Kent Cup (2nd Round - Sun 25th Jan)
(Ashenden [FG], D Humber [FG])

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 2 - 1 Maidstone 2nd XI (H)
2nd XI 1 - 3 Holcombe 2nd XI (A)
3rd XI 4 - 0 Cobdown 1st XI (H)

 

Colts' Results

U12 Boys friendlies vs Bromley & Beckenham (H) - 0-3; 1-2 (M Williams [FG]); 0-2
U14 Boys 1 - 9 Burnt Ash (H)
(Rohan Chana [FG])
U18 Boys 1 - 18 Gore Court (H)
(R Scott [FG])

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 3 - 1 Blackheath (A)
With BBHC dropping two points last week, it was important to get their title hopes back on track with a win over Blackheath, who were no placed above them in the league.

The game started off slowly with Blackheath having the better of the play, giving BBHC no time on the ball and preventing the ball being moved about. BBHC managed to create a few opportunities but Blackheath's dominance was showing with the number of short corners they managed to win. Blackheath finally took the lead, after the ball was given away in the left back position, which left two quick passes to get the ball into the back of the net. BBHC continued to fight and seized the opportunity to level the scores before half time when the initial strike from a short corner was saved to be followed up by James Baldwin.

A new look BBHC came out in the second half, after a strong talking-to at half time. They moved the ball around swiftly and pressured Blackheath for spells. BBHC took the lead after a short corner was converted by Sam Ashenden with a drag flick.

Blackheath continued to fight and despite the hard work and silky skills from their forwards, were unable to convert. They had a strong penalty stroke appeal but were not rewarded. BBHC sealed the win by converting another short corner. Andres Labourt wobbled passed the onrushing defenders before flicking the ball home. Blackheath threw everything they had at BBHC for the last 10 minutes but were unable to convert leaving BBHC to claim all 3 points.

M.o.M - Lee Cook
D.o.D - Sam Ashenden

[Alex Webster]

 

1st XI 2 - 4 Marden Russets 1st XI (A) - Kent Cup (2nd Round - Sun 25th Jan)
Having beaten national league Sevenoaks in the last round, BBHC visited Marden Russets (who they had beaten 6-3 in the last game before Christmas) hoping to grab a win and set up another clash with national league opposition.

BBHC started off the brighter of the sides and grabbed the lead when Sam Ashenden followed up on a short corner. Marden bounced back though and kept BBHC pinned in for long spells. Despite this BBHC managed to hold on until half time.

The second half was a more open affair with the next goal being critical. unfortunately it came to Marden after an expert deflection from the penalty spot into the side netting. The momentum was now with Marden and they managed to grab another two goals on the counter attack. BBHC continued to fight though and grabbed a goal back after a hit outside the D was deflected by David Humber. Marden reacted swiftly though and put the game out of reach after the ball was given away cheaply by the BBHC defence, putting an end to the Kent Cup run.

M.o.M - Lee Cook
D.o.D - Kev king

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI P - P Sevenoaks (A) - Frozen pitch
The frozen pitch at Wildernesse School took away BBHC's chance of gaining more points to edge themselves to safety before the big game with league-leagers Blackheath next week. This is likely to be rescheduled to Saturday 4th April, the day of the Club Dinner!

[Andrei Mendis]

 

5th XI 1 - 3 Old Bordenians (A)
BBHC 5's had a late start at Old Bord's, the 5's welcomed Arthur Davies into the fold, Arthur being the 40th player to grace the field on behalf of the team. With a couple of key players missing, BB would always be on the back foot, the home team taking advantage of the height and experience over BB's young players.

Against the run of play, BB's Peter Allen put away a well drilled penalty corner routine to put BB one up. The home team then upped their game putting Sal Mohammed in the BB goal under increasing pressure, the barrage paid off with a deflected tap wrong-footing the keeper.

The game became more agitated with both sides having chances but failing to score. A dubious decision (even the home team skipper was phased!) by the home umpire allowed Bord's to take the lead into the half time break.

The second half brought BB pushing forward trying to draw level, this left gaps at the back, the BB defence held strong, with some rigid and at times basic defending. Eventually it had to happen, the home team broke through and worked the ball around the keeper. BB continued to push and had their chances outside the oppositions D, unfortunately these were not converted.

Special mention for, Rohan Chana, Sunny Neta, Phillip Williams and Phillip Cratchley who, although outsized, continued to play a good standard hockey. Thanks to both of the Old Bord's umpires. (well, one of them anyway!!!)

Final score Old Bord's 3 BBHC 1.

[Andy Humber]

 

Colts' Reports

U12 Boys friendlies vs Bromley & Beckenham (H) - 0-3; 1-2; 0-2
The boys played host to BromBecks for their first fixture of the season. The visitors had a large and well drilled squad which stunned our team in the opening game of a three match series. BromBecks easily won 3-0 despite valiant defensive work from George O'Brien. After a few words from coach Ravi and changes in formation the boys made a great improvement. In a close second match the boys just lost 1-2 with Matthew Williams getting a deserved goal. The third match was a close end to end game but the boys could not take their chances and lost 0-1. Overall a good first match for the boys against strong opponents, all put in a great effort especially Josh Henderson who got stuck in against players almost twice his age and size. Thanks to Sorcha Crowley and Jamie Saunders for umpiring.

[Steve Hawes]

 

U14 Boys 1 - 9 Burnt Ash (H)
A big scoreline and a highly embarrassing result. That would be a suitable synopsis for this game. BBHC expected a much closer affair but the team were clearly under-prepared and showed none of the fight and free-flowing play of those entertaining games before Christmas. 6-0 down at half time and BAHC manager Ray was also in shock. Players were rarely marked, tackles were rash and passes were made blindly. And the most experienced BBHC players played well below their potential in the 1st half - that can only be the coaches' fault (who include the author here).

A stern team talk at half time brought minor respite. As Burnt Ash tired (yet scoring 3 goals), BBHC kept up the fight and full marks for this. This culminated in a goal of their own, scrambled home by Rohan Chana. Many thanks to the BBHC parents for keeping the lads' heads up, and also to Burnt Ash's contingent for their well-mannered support - a demonstration of the true spirit of hockey.

Thanks also to Steve Hawes for umpiring.

Next week it's Old Bordenians (A) - 11am PB at Borden Grammar School.

[Andrei Mendis]

 

U18 Boys 1 - 18 Gore Court (H)
Whilst your author was "managing" the U14 Boys on the 2nd pitch, the U18 Boys faced the mighty Gore Court. Therefore, this report is based on conversations with the BBHC stand-in manager and the BBHC umpire.

With a weak squad available most weeks, the U18 Boys were still willing to face the far stronger squads at other Kent clubs and by all accounts put up a fight until the end. The squad was so short that 3 from the Girls' squad were drafted in for their Ladies' hockey experience, Ellie Kember-Hollands, Leah Kember-Hollands, and Sorcha Crowley - many thanks.

Despite warning Gore Court of the predicted one-sidedness of this fixture before pushback, their boys seemed to ignore any advice from their coach (who had to umpire for them) and proceeded to annihilate BBHC. Once the win had been secured, the tireless running by all the home players could have been used to practise the expansive passing game that Gore Court would surely need against more experienced opposition. Instead, they chose the individualist route.

Why play such an unprepared team in a league of far better opposition, you may ask? It's the only way of getting any regular fixtures against as many clubs for a group of lads who want to play as a team together. Even if they are missing experienced players to Sunday jobs. BBHC will try to remedy this season's situation by informing remaining opponents of their predicament and discussing options further in advance (in contrast to the what they did this week).

BBHC's only tangible consolation from the match came when Ryan Scott drilled the ball home to jubilation from his team mates. Allan Sains was proud of the team. Many thanks to him for managing the side on a busy weekend for him

Thanks also goes to Alison Hollands for umpiring at short notice despite her stack of other jobs to do. This was due to the lack of volunteers from those in the adult club who only choose to turn up and play. A frustrating state of affairs despite requests made by captains and coaches with plenty of advanced warning.

[Andrei Mendis]

* Just a little comment, it was really nice to see that despite loosing and really no chance of a come back the Under 18's heads never went down. They battled all the way to the end! It was great to see the girls taking on and out the boys of Gore Court even before the game asking me basically do you think they will go a little easy on us because we're girls. Some wonderful stick skills from the girls left GC literally just standing while BBHC pushed up field. With the chances that we did have which wasn't too many we looked like scoring every time.

As Andrei said I was very proud of the effort the team put in!

{Allan Sains]

 

 

Saturday 17th January 2009

Men's Results

1st XI 4 - 4 Horsham 1st XI (H)
(Ashenden 2 [2FG], Labourt [FG], Stanley [FG])
2nd XI 2 - 6 Ashford 2nd XI (A)
(Sains 2 [2FG])
3rd XI 3 - 2 Gillingham Anchorians 2nd XI (H)
(D Humber [FG], G Jones 2 [2FG])
4th XI 1 - 8 HSBC 2nd XI (A)
(M Pellat [FG])
5th XI 5 - 4 Gillingham Anchorians 4th XI (H)
(Allen [PC], TT Humber [FG], Jayasuria [FG], Mohammed [FG], P Williams [FG])
6th XI - No Fixture
Vets 3 - 1 Burnt Ash (H)

 

Ladies' Results

1st XI 1 - 5 Canterbury 2A (A)
2nd XI 3 - 4 Marden Russets 1st XI (A)
3rd XI 2 - 4 New Beccehamians 2nd XI (H)

 

Colts' Results

U16 Girls 2 - 0 Ashford (H)
(Annett [FG], Crowley [FG])
U18 Boys 0 - 7 Herne Bay (A)

 

Men's Reports

1st XI 4 - 4 Horsham 1st XI (H)
The away game versus Horsham was an eight goal thriller, BBHC were hoping this visit would allow them to create a gap between Horsham who are just below them in the league.

The game started of tentatively for both sides, washing away those cobwebs that had built up over Christmas. It was Horsham who grabbed the lead after the ball was lost at the back by the BBHC defence. A swift pass to the lone man at the top of the D left him with only the keeper to beat, which he did. Five minutes later the lead was doubled when a hit outside the D was quickly taken and deflected in at the near post.

Despite the two goal deficit, BBHC were confident in their ability to pull the game back. The passing slowly improved for BBHC and they kept the visitors pinned in for periods. However, the quick and skilful forwards of Horsham kept the BBHC defence on their toes. After several short corners, the BBHC attack managed to grab a goal back after a strike was initially saved for Sam Ashenden to lift the ball over the downed keeper. However, BBHC managed to concede another before half time. Some good individual skill from the Horsham right wing saw him set up his colleague for a reverse flick into the net, leaving Lee Cook in goal with no chance.

BBHC came out of the stern half time team talk with all guns blazing. Five minute in BBHC won a short corner. Although the initial shot was saved the ensuing scramble was finished off by Peter Stanley. Sensing the slow start to the half by Horsham, BBHC continued to surge forward. The scores were levelled after Andres Labourt received the ball at the top of the D and sent it crashing home. Both sides were now searching for that winner with neither side creating any definitive chances. ten minutes before the end though, BBHC grabbed the lead in a carbon copy of the first with the ball falling to Sam Ashenden, who lifted it over the downed keeper after the initial save.

However, the game was not over and five minutes before the end a quickly taken hit outside the BBHC D combined with some slack marking at the back allowed Horsham to level.

An exciting game for the neutral spectator but not one that helps either team promotion aspirations.

[Alex Webster]

 

3rd XI 3 - 2 Gillingham Anchorians 2nd XI (H)
BBHC looked to continue where they left off before Christmas and grabbed the win despite 2 minutes of madness.

The opening 5 minutes of play demonstrated everyone's post-Christmas rustiness but the B's took the lion's share of possession and dominated the half. It helped that the Anchorians forward line was largely static until they received the ball so the BBHC defence easily kept them at bay. With Ravi Chana and Sukh Chaggar tireless in midfield, openings were created in the face of pedestrian visiting defenders but tame shots and some great Anchorians goalkeeping kept the scores level.

The breakthrough came when a move down the left broke to David Humber in the right of the D and his swept shot sailed high into the net. 5 minutes later, Gareth Jones (the predator from 3 metres out) dinked the ball in over the grounded 'keeper after more pressure in the D. However, a touch of complacency by the home defence allowed Anchorians to break into the D and a solid cross was slapped high into the net with ease. Exactly 30 seconds after the restart, BBHC sloppily conceded a short corner and the firm strike from the top of the D slipped through Jim Jackson's legs. A wake-up call before half time.

The tie was in the balance and a firm team talk saw the home side steady themselves and maintain control of the game before Jones tapped home midway through the 2nd half. BBHC should have won this game comfortably but this win taught some key lessons for the remainder of the season.

Next week, it's a 10:30am PB at Wildernesse School to face Sevenoaks 4A's (A).

[Andrei Mendis]

 

4th XI 1 - 8 HSBC 2nd XI (A)
Oh dear! Another difficult away game for ourselves saw us, for the second time this season, playing with 9. Not the best way to approach a game that we should belooking to win.

The first half went well. We conceded only one, hit the post twice and caused the opposition’s keeper to make a number of saves.

So, half time came with the team in determined mood and reasonably good spirits. Sadly this optimism was soon dashed, as HSBC scored a couple of quick goals, with some good passing moves.

We were given a ray of hope When Mark Pellat finished off a good move. As the half went on we became more ragged and the game opened up even more, allowing our opposition to take full advantage, seemingly scoring at will. Well done to the guys for sticking at it and let’s hope for some more players next week.

MoM: Martin Agyei – for the most outrageous one handed, reverse stick shot, bound for the top corner. Never seen that before – A ‘backhand’ Andy Murray would have been proud of.

DoD Martin Agyei – Deciding that centre midfield was a position to be played ahead of the forwards.

[James Smith]

 

5th XI 5 - 4 Gillingham Anchorians 4th XI (H)
BBHC 5's welcomed Gillingham Anchorians 5's, the team which beat BB in the last league match before the Christmas break for a friendly .

BB yet again had a changed side with four players who had not played within the side before. A steady start from both sides with neither troubling the oppositions keeper, fifteen minutes in, Anc's converted a well taken penalty corner, this then changed the emphasis of the game, Anc's took hold with their two well accomplished half's previously mentioned in the last match report, the score being kept down to 0.1 by Martin Mason in goal. BB pulled level after a well struck ball from Sal Mohamed was flicked in by Phillip Williams. Straight from the push back, Anc's duo weaved through BB and placed the ball firmly in the BB goal.

With not a lot for the captain to say at half time, BB came out with determination, BB pulled level with a strike from Peter Allen from a penalty corner. From there the game became frantic, Anc's going three up after a dubious decision by the Anc's umpire, this had the required effect, BB players rallied; goals from Sal Mohamed, T.T Humber and Udi Jayarsuria and tight marking (very tight at sometimes!!) on the Anc's duo gave the home team the win.

Thanks to Sam Ashenden for umpiring. Final score BBHC 5 Gillingham Anc's 3

[Andy Humber]

 

Colts' Report

U16 Girls 2 - 0 Ashford (H)
After a long break for Christmas and a bitter winter prevented BBHC U16 girls from training, today’s game was going to be interesting. BBHC's league game against Ashford was at home (Erith School). The sun decided to come out which was a good omen.

The first half for BBHC was end to end play, with more pressure put on by BBHC however could not convert any chances. The second half started just as the first half had finished, but a cross from the right and a touch from Alysia Arnett put BBHC in front and gave BBHC the motivation to push on.

With key players holding their own and all the team pushing forward BBHC put Sorcha Crowley (captain) in the position to score BBHC second goal, with five minutes to go. Ashford fought to the end however were unable to break down BBHC defence.

Final score 2- 0

[Alison Hollands]

 

U18 Boys 0 - 7 Herne Bay (A)
A tough season for the U18 Boys got worse with a drubbing by fellow-strugglers, Herne Bay. With Sukh Chaggar and David Humber unavailable, and Sunny Neta and Alex Scott out ill and injured respectively, BBHC travelled to the coast with just 11 players and nobody to manage the team during the match.

BBHC went a goal down 3 minutes into the game and an avalanche was feared. However, the boys took the game to their hosts for a 10 minute period, breaking through midfield and threatening the D. BBHC's best chance came on a Blake Bartholomew break when he was clean through but failed to beat the keeper who had advanced to the top of his D. Thereafter, Herne Bay's preference to rely on the pass rather than the dribble saw them make better use of their possession and went into half time 3-0 up.

Herne Bay seemed to lack ideas for the 15 minutes after half time and the scores remained unchanged. BBHC were still in the game and the guile of Rohan Chana and Bartholomew threatened a good things, but they dribbled with the ball for too long and lost possession without attempting track back to help regain it. The visitors pushed for goals but were caught out 4 times despite some good goalkeeping from James Isteed.

Two BBHC short corners went unconverted and the game ended 7-0, perhaps a little flattering to the home side but BBHC lacked the depth and experience for this fixture. The team today needed at least 1 more of it's stronger players available to make a difference, and at least 2 more for the stronger opposition to come.

[Andrei Mendis]

 

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